Pitt in the NFL: Former Panthers shine in Week 11, Graham signed by Steelers

Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy’s league-leading rushing total climbed to more than 1,000 yards in a very impressive Week 11 at the professional level for him as well as for his fellow former Panthers.

McCoy (Pitt 2007-2008) took 20 carries for 77 yards on the ground against Washington to raise his total rushing yards on the season to 1,009. He also crossed the goal line twice and caught four passes for 73 yards to propel the Eagles to a 24-16 victory.

Philadelphia fans, along with the Pitt fan base, were scared to see McCoy struggle to get up in the second quarter. After taking the ball into the red zone, he immediately took off his helmet and grabbed his right hamstring. 

Despite what looked like a serious injury, McCoy returned after halftime and finished with 150 total yards. 

The Eagles, who are now 6-5 on the year, currently have sole possession of first place in the NFC East. They have a bye next week, which will give McCoy more time to rest his injured hamstring. 

On the other hand, it will give second- and third-place rushers Marshawn Lynch (925 yards) and Alfred Morris (918) the opportunity to pass McCoy for the rushing title. 

Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (Pitt 2002-2003) helped his Arizona Cardinals defeat Jacksonville, 27-14, and fight back into the playoff picture. The Cardinals, who are now 6-4 on the season, are only one game out of the second wild-card spot. 

Fitzgerald grabbed six passes in the contest for 61 yards — his highest total since Week 6 — and added a 14-yard touchdown in the first quarter. 

Oakland Raiders guard Lucas Nix (Pitt 2008-2011) has been an important piece on the offensive line this season. Nix and the rest of the line were able to protect undrafted rookie quarterback Matt McGloin, who was only sacked twice against Houston. 

With help from Nix, the Raiders were able to put up 341 total yards of offense and defeat Houston, 28-23.

Another offensive lineman, center Mike McGlynn (Pitt 2004-2007), led the Colts to 366 yards of total offense in a 30-27 win over Tennessee. Indianapolis’ quarterback, Andrew Luck, was only sacked once for 3 yards.

Cleveland Browns defensive end Jabaal Sheard (Pitt 2007-2010) recorded three tackles and hit the quarterback only once in a 41-20 loss to the division rival Cincinnati. 

Tampa Bay cornerback Darrelle Revis (Pitt 2004-2006) only recorded one tackle against the Falcons, but the Tampa Bay offense prevailed and took the game, 41-28.

San Francisco 49ers punter Andy Lee (Pitt 2000-2004) booted the ball seven times and landed three inside the opposing 20-yard line. The 49ers lost a heartbreaker against the Saints, 23-20, after kicker Garrett Hartley nailed a 31-yard field goal as time expired. 

After losing the back-up running back job to Dennis Johnson, Ray Graham (Pitt 2009-2012) was waived by the Houston Texans last Friday. Graham has yet to earn a professional carry, but the Steelers signed him to their practice squad Tuesday.