Buccaneers' Bucky Irving nominated for NFL weekly award

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their first win of the season following a narrow 24-16 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. Running back Bucky Irving played a pivotal role in the triumph, earning him a nomination for the FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week award. Irving showcased a stellar performance, accumulating 175 yards from scrimmage, including 21 carries for 165 yards and a touchdown, alongside two receptions for a total of 10 yards and another touchdown.

His performance was instrumental in Tampa Bay's comeback, as he broke free for a 72-yard touchdown run in the second half, setting the stage for Emeka Egbuka's 14-yard touchdown run and extending the Buccaneers' lead to 14-10. Irving also contributed with a five-yard touchdown reception from rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels and a one-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter.

His efforts were crucial as Tampa Bay finished the game with a season-best 241 yards on the ground, averaging 6.2 yards per carry, while Jalon Daniels completed 19 of 25 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown. The Buccaneers' defense and special teams also played a significant part, forcing three second-half turnovers, with Yaya Diaby and Alex Anzalone intercepting Dak Prescott and Miles Killebrew forcing a fumble on a kickoff return recovered by Kevin Knowles.

Irving's 175 scrimmage yards were his third-most of his NFL career, and his performance marked his fourth career 100-yard rushing game. As Tampa Bay looks ahead to their Week 6 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Irving's production provided the offensive answers needed to control the game and take pressure off the young quarterback.

Fans can now vote for Irving for the FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week award on the Buccaneers' official website.