Bucs outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) celebrates after recovering a fumble by Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon (8) during the first half. [LOREN ELLIOTT | Times]
TAMPA — The last time the Bucs had a top-five defense also happens to be when they last appeared in the postseason.
A decade has passed since 2007, a decade without that rock to lean on.
Now, fortified by a couple sterling draft classes and led by former Falcons head coach Mike Smith, the D in the Bucs DNA is back.
"I get so excited playing with these guys because at every level there's something special, at every position," defensive tackle Gerald McCoy said.