Bucky Irving Runs Riot as Buccaneers Stun Cowboys 24-16 for First Win of Season

The Guardian Sport•Published: Oct 9, 2026 09:14 AM IST

Running back Bucky Irving rushed for a career-high 165 yards and scored two touchdowns to help the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secure a surprising 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night at AT&T Stadium. The win marks Tampa Bay's first victory of the season as they capitalized heavily on sloppy Dallas mistakes and turnovers.

Rushing Dominance: Bucky Irving carried the ball 21 times for 165 yards, averaging 7.9 yards per attempt, including a massive 72-yard run that set up the go-ahead touchdown.
Steady Leadership: Quarterback Jalon Daniels directed a turnover-free offense in just his second career start, completing 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown.
Costly Turnovers: Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott threw two interceptions and the Cowboys committed crucial miscues, including a fumbled kickoff that extended Tampa Bay's lead.
Backup Performance: Daniels is currently filling in for injured starter Baker Mayfield, who remains sidelined with a dislocated thumb on his throwing hand.

The Context & Background

The Buccaneers entered the season with high expectations of winning the NFC South but struggled early to a 1-4 record. Meanwhile, the defeat drops the inconsistent Cowboys to 2-3 as defensive and offensive struggles continue to mount under coach Brian Schottenheimer.

Why it matters:This upset victory provides the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with crucial momentum and their first win, breathing new life into their season despite missing starting quarterback Baker Mayfield. For the Dallas Cowboys, the sloppy performance and dropped record to 2-3 highlight deepening concerns about their consistency and ability to execute under pressure.

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