TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is healthy again, and Tampa Bay’s pass rush suddenly is showing signs of dramatic improvement.
The third-year pro had one of three sacks of Cam Newton in a 16-10 season-opening victory over Carolina, while also helping the Buccaneers defense limit the Panthers to 10 yards rushing.
McCoy was the third overall pick in the 2010 draft, selected two spots behind Detroit’s Ndamukong Suh. But while the Lions’ young defensive tackle immediately established himself as a rising star, McCoy struggled to stay on the field the past two seasons because of injuries.
Next up for McCoy and the Buccaneers are the New York Giants on Sunday.
