Bucky Irving Leads Buccaneers Past Cowboys 24-16 as Tampa Bay Earns First Win of Season.
ARLINGTON, Texas — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their first victory of the 2026 NFL season Thursday night, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 24-16 behind a career-best rushing performance from Bucky Irving and an efficient outing from rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels. Irving rushed for 165 yards on 21 carries and scored two touchdowns, including a 5-yard reception and a 1-yard rushing score. His 72-yard run early in the second half helped Tampa Bay take control of the game. Daniels, making his second career start while replacing injured quarterback Baker Mayfield, completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown without committing a turnover. The Buccaneers finished with 241 rushing yards.
After entering halftime in a competitive contest, Tampa Bay gained momentum when Emeka Egbuka scored on a 14-yard jet sweep. Irving later added a 1-yard touchdown run, extending the Buccaneers' advantage to 21-10. Dallas struggled with turnovers and missed opportunities throughout the second half. Quarterback Dak Prescott completed 24 of 42 passes for 316 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. His 13-yard touchdown pass to George Pickens in the fourth quarter helped Dallas narrow the deficit, but a late interception ended the Cowboys' comeback hopes.
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was limited to two receptions for nine yards before leaving with a quadriceps injury.
The victory improved Tampa Bay's record to 1-4, providing much-needed momentum after four consecutive losses. Dallas dropped to 2-3 as offensive mistakes continued to disrupt its season.
Up Next: The Buccaneers will host the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 18, while the Cowboys travel to face the Green Bay Packers that same day.
