Trojans in the NFL: T.J. McDonald, Rey Maualuga stand out on defense

Every Monday we will recap notable performances of former USC players in the NFL.

McDonald leads Rams defense

St. Louis Rams safety T.J. McDonald demonstrated his playmaking ability a few weeks ago when he blocked a punt and a field-goal attempt by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

On Sunday, the former Trojan made a team-best 11 tackles -- two for losses -- and deflected a pass in the Rams’ 34-28 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.

McDonald, a third-round draft pick in 2013, has 25 tackles.

Woods and Robey contribute to Bills victory

Receiver Robert Woods and defensive back Nickell Robey helped the Buffalo Bills in a 17-14 come-from-behind victory over the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.

Woods caught three passes for 37 yards.

Robey made five tackles, deflected two passes and recovered a fumble as time expired.

Woods was the Bills’ second-round pick in 2013. Robey signed as an undrafted free agent the same year.

Woods has 14 receptions for 156 yards this season. Robey has 13 tackles.

Bengals defense led by Maualuga

Former USC and linebacker Rey Maualuga continues to produce in his sixth season with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Maualuga made a team-best nine tackles in a 43-17 Bengals defeat by the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium.

Maualuga has 15 tackles.

Bush injured in loss

Lions running back Reggie Bush suffered an apparent ankle injury in the loss to the Bills.

Bush rushed for 13 yards in six carries before he was sidelined in the second half.

Lions Coach Jim Caldwell on Monday did not provide an update on Bush, the Detroit News reported.

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