I think his play calling reflects his QB's performance. I felt Kellen Moore also got thrown under the bus for the same thing.
Probably so, to an extent, but it's an easy trap to fall into.
After Rush was almost intercepted late vs the Buccaneers, McCarthy got noticeably conservative.
"Almost" is not an interception. You have to keep playing to win. I understand clock management and I know he was eating the clock, but the defense knows that, too.
There are opportunities, and just because Rush doesn't go deep doesn't mean he can't. He's pretty accurate at 50 yds, and that opens the secondary.
I think there is a lot more to see from Rush if McCarthy would let him.