Rookie QB Jalon Daniels, Bucky Irving Lead Buccaneers to Shock Upset Over Cowboys

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their first win of the 2026 NFL season with a stunning 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night. The unexpected triumph was largely fueled by the impressive performance of undrafted rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels, who made his second career start in place of the injured Baker Mayfield.

Daniels orchestrated the Buccaneers' offense effectively, throwing for 189 yards and a touchdown with no interceptions, while running back Bucky Irving delivered a career-best performance. Irving rushed for 165 yards and two touchdowns, proving to be a dominant force against the Cowboys' defense. The defensive effort also played a crucial role, with David Walker's pressure on Dak Prescott contributing significantly to the win.