DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - On October 24, 1971, the Dallas Cowboys moved from the Cotton Bowl in Dallas to Texas Stadium in Irving. The new stadium was considered "the finest football facility in the world."

The Cowboys christened their new home by beating the New England Patriots by a score of 44-21 in the stadium built with a hole in the roof for one very important reason. "I always heard it was built with a hole in the roof so God could watch his team play," former player Randy White explained.

Former player Emmitt Smith agreed. "Being in Texas Stadium was special," Smith said. "Just knowing that God was looking down on his favorite team was more special."

Watch: Former Cowboys Players Recall Texas Stadium

The Cowboys tenure at Texas Stadium was the most successful in team history. In their 38 seasons at Texas Stadium, the Cowboys posted a 213-100 home record, including 16-6 in the postseason. Dallas won all five of their NFL championships during their time at the stadium.

Although demolished in 2009, the debut of Texas Stadium is remembered as the 39th greatest moment in Cowboys history.