The Tampa Bay Buccaneers earned their first win of the season Thursday night, using a dominant rushing performance and a late defensive takeaway to beat the Dallas Cowboys 24-16.
Key takeaways
- Rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels collected his first victory as an NFL starter while filling in for the injured Baker Mayfield.
- Bucky Irving powered Tampa Bay’s offense with 165 rushing yards and a touchdown.
- Irving broke loose for a 72-yard run in the first half, shedding tackles on the way downfield.
- Alex Anzalone intercepted Dak Prescott during Dallas’ fourth-quarter comeback attempt.
- The Cowboys dropped to 2-3 after committing three turnovers and losing possession time by 19 minutes.
Tampa Bay controls the game on the ground
Daniels and Irving led a Buccaneers offense that produced more than 400 total yards. Daniels steadied Tampa Bay in his first start, taking over with Mayfield unavailable because of injury, while Irving repeatedly gave the offense field position and kept the Cowboys defense on the field.
Irving’s 72-yard burst was the defining play of the first half. The running back fought through contact before turning the play into a long gain, part of a 165-yard night that also included a touchdown.
Tampa Bay’s ability to sustain drives proved especially important against Dallas. The Buccaneers held the ball for 19 more minutes than the Cowboys, limiting Prescott’s opportunities and allowing their defense to stay fresh for the closing stretch.
Anzalone closes out Cowboys rally
Dallas made a late push after falling behind, but its mistakes proved too costly. The Cowboys turned the ball over three times, and their final comeback chance ended when Anzalone intercepted Prescott.
The pick halted Dallas’ momentum and protected the Buccaneers’ eight-point lead, sealing the 24-16 result. Tampa Bay now has its first victory of the season, while the Cowboys leave Thursday night at 2-3.
