The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their first 2026 win with a 24-16 upset over the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Night Football, overcoming an early deficit behind rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels and a dominant rushing performance from Bucky Irving.
Daniels, an undrafted rookie, made his second start after Baker Mayfield’s injury, completing 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown while avoiding turnovers. His performance, combined with Irving’s 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a 72-yard burst, proved decisive.
Cowboys’ Defensive Struggles Highlight Vulnerabilities
Dallas’ 60.6% dropback success rate, the highest in the NFL, left them vulnerable to Tampa Bay’s attack. Despite a 10-7 halftime lead, the Cowboys’ defense collapsed in the second half, giving up a 64-yard pass to Tez Johnson and a 72-yard run by Irving.
Dallas allowed 241 rushing yards, the second-most in the league, and had the highest dropback success rate (60.6%) in the NFL. Teams have thrown passes with an 8% higher completion rate than expected against the Cowboys, a league-leading figure. Dallas is tied for the second-fewest sacks in the league (4) through five games.
Key Moments and Controversial Decisions
The game turned in the third quarter when the Buccaneers erupted for 17 points, capitalizing on Dallas’ mistakes.
The Buccaneers’ defense forced three turnovers, including an interception by Alex Anzalone. Dallas’ secondary, featuring Christian Parker and Daron Bland, was picked on throughout the game, contributing to the Bucs’ offensive success.
Irving’s Impact and the Bucs’ Penalties
Bucky Irving’s performance was a revelation, carrying the ball 21 times and showcasing his power and agility. His 72-yard run, which broke multiple tackles, highlighted his ability to exploit Dallas’ poor tackling. However, the Buccaneers’ offensive line struggled, resulting in 13 penalties for 87 yards. The Bucs have no discipline on the offensive side of the ball,
SI wrote.
The Bucs’ rushing attack, led by Irving, Kenny Gainwell, and Sean Tucker, was extremely important. The clearest path to victory for the Bucs was to consistently pick up first downs with a steady diet of carries for the RB trio. Tampa Bay posted 241 rushing yards on the night, with Irving accounting for 165. The Cowboys, however, surrendered the second-highest rushing yards, sixth-most yards per carry, and ninth-most rushing yards above expectation this season.
Cowboys’ Offense Falters as Injuries Mount
The Cowboys’ offense, led by Dak Prescott, struggled to find consistency. Prescott finished with 316 passing yards and a touchdown but was plagued by turnovers, including two interceptions. Javonte Williams, the team’s top rusher, was limited to 45 yards on 12 carries, while CeeDee Lamb left the game with a quadriceps injury.
Javonte Williams was limited to just 45 rushing yards on 12 carries. The loss extended Dallas’ streak of allowing 20 or more points in 12 games, matching a team record.
Bucs’ Next Game and League Context
The Buccaneers improved to 1-4, while the Cowboys dropped to 2-3. Tampa Bay’s blend of explosive rushing, well-timed passing, and aggressive defense overwhelmed the Cowboys. The Bucs’ next game is at the Green Bay Packers on Oct. 18, as they look to build on their first win of the season. Dallas’ turnovers and failure to contain the run transformed a strong beginning into a disheartening home defeat.