Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers live blog: Score updates, analysis of NFL season opener
defending Super Bowl-champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers play host to the Dallas Cowboys. The game will mark Dak Prescott’s much-anticipated return from a compound fracture and dislocated ankle last October. Prescott and the Cowboys’ promising offense – which is set to be without all-pro guard Zack Martin – will have a tough test out of the gates against a Buccaneers defense that surged during its Super Bowl run last season.
Meanwhile, Tom Brady will be making his record 300th career regular-season start against a Dallas defense looking to find its footing under new defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.
Stay here for updates from USA TODAY Sports, including Jori Epstein and Jarrett Bell on the scene in Tampa, throughout the action.
Starting right guard Zack Martin, however, figures to be out after testing positive for COVID-19.
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, will be without starting safety Jordan Whitehead as he continues to recover from a hamstring ailment.
Pregame reading
Get set for Thursday night’s matchup with some of our best recent stories on the Bucs-Cowboys tilt as well as predictions for the upcoming season.
- Tom Brady is all business as he sets out on his Super Bowl repeat bid.
- What can we expect from Dak Prescott in his comeback? Jori Epstein details the Cowboys QB’s journey.
- The Cowboys D and coordinator Dan Quinn could hold the key to turning things around in Year 2 under Mike McCarthy.
- Who is USA TODAY Sports’ NFL staff picking for Cowboys-Buccaneers and other Week 1 games? Find all our selections here.
- Super Bowl predictions, MVP forecast and more: We’ve got you covered.