In week three of the NFL season, former Panthers continue to put up great numbers, and one alumnus in particular took the opportunity to distance himself from the rest of the league.

LeSean McCoy (Pitt 2002-2003) took a commanding lead in the early race for the NFL rushing title. His 158 yards on 20 carries against the Chiefs brought his season total to 395 yards, which is 171 yards more than the second-place rusher, Jamaal Charles. 

Although McCoy was able to once again put up big numbers Thursday night, his Eagles could not catch up to Kansas City in a 26-16 loss. McCoy hurt his ankle and left the game during the second quarter, but he returned after X-rays revealed no serious injuries.

McCoy looks to add to his league-leading total Sunday against an impressive Denver squad.

Tampa Bay cornerback Darrelle Revis (Pitt 2004-2006) had a decent performance, but the rest of the Buccaneers’ defensive unit struggled in a 23-3 loss to New England. Revis had five tackles and only allowed receiver Aaron Dobson to gain 52 yards on 10 targets. 

Despite being a game-time decision with a hamstring injury, Arizona wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (Pitt 2002-2003) connected with quarterback Carson Palmer on five passes for a team-high 64 yards against the Saints. The Cardinals had trouble breaking through the New Orleans defense and dropped the game, 31-7.

Next week provides an exciting matchup for Panthers fans: Fitzgerald and the Cardinals will head to Tampa Bay to take on Revis and the Buccaneers. Revis, who usually shadows the opponent’s best wide receiver, wants to give Fitzgerald a difficult time next Sunday afternoon. In turn, Fitzgerald is still in search of his first 100-yard game in 2013.

Cleveland defensive end Jabaal Sheard (Pitt 2007-2010) was the lone former Panther to find victory in week three. He had three tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery in a 31-27 upset over Minnesota. 

San Francisco punter Andy Lee (Pitt 2000-2004) continues to see an increase in work due to a struggling 49ers offense. Lee launched seven punts — including two that landed inside the 20-yard line and another that he nailed for 62 yards.