Posted on Dec 29

Bengals dominate Cardinals 37-14; Ford's first catch highlights game

Posted Dec 29, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Arizona Cardinals 37-14, highlighted by an unexpected and memorable 21-yard reception from offensive lineman Cody Ford.

Why it matters: This victory not only improves the Bengals' record to 6-10 but also serves as a morale booster and a moment of joy for a player who typically does not see the ball in his hands.

With the win, Cincinnati remains competitive in a challenging season, showcasing flashes of their potential under head coach Zac Taylor.
Ford’s remarkable catch emphasizes the versatility and unpredictability that can be invaluable in modern offensive schemes.

What’s new: Cody Ford's reception marks a significant milestone as it was his first career catch, a feat made even more special due to its well-planned execution.

The play was specifically designed for Ford, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 345 pounds, allowing him to leverage his size and athleticism in an unconventional role for an offensive lineman.
Joe Burrow, initially aiming for star receiver Ja'Marr Chase, demonstrated quick thinking and adaptability by redirecting the pass to Ford.

Between the lines: The decision to involve Ford in the passing game underscores a creative approach by the Bengals' coaching staff.

“I threw it to him early in the week in practice as a joke,” Burrow said, highlighting the playful nature of the design that turned into a successful play.
Coach Taylor’s confidence in Ford’s ability to catch the ball speaks to the team’s overall commitment to versatility on offense.

Yes, but: While Ford’s reception was a highlight, the Bengals will need to continue improving if they hope to make a late-season push.

Despite the win, the Bengals have struggled throughout the season, and maintaining momentum will be crucial in the upcoming games.
Taylor's quip about the likelihood of Ford receiving another touch—“Zero percent chance”—serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of NFL offenses and how rare such moments can be.

What to watch: As the season progresses, keep an eye on how the Bengals utilize their roster creatively moving forward.

The team's ability to adapt and innovate on offense could be a critical factor in maximizing their talents, especially with notable players like tight end Noah Fant dealing with injuries.
Opportunities for surprise plays could become more frequent as they seek to exploit mismatches against opposing defenses.

The bottom line: Cody Ford's moment in the spotlight is a testament to the unpredictability of football and the joy of achieving something extraordinary against all odds.

"Today will be with me for a long time, if not forever," Ford expressed, encapsulating the emotional significance of this day not just for him, but for a Bengals team searching for bright spots amidst a challenging season.

Bengals dominate Cardinals 37-14; Ford's first catch highlights game

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 29, 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Arizona Cardinals 37-14, highlighted by an unexpected and memorable 21-yard reception from offensive lineman Cody Ford.

Why it matters: This victory not only improves the Bengals' record to 6-10 but also serves as a morale booster and a moment of joy for a player who typically does not see the ball in his hands.

With the win, Cincinnati remains competitive in a challenging season, showcasing flashes of their potential under head coach Zac Taylor.

Ford’s remarkable catch emphasizes the versatility and unpredictability that can be invaluable in modern offensive schemes.

What’s new: Cody Ford's reception marks a significant milestone as it was his first career catch, a feat made even more special due to its well-planned execution.

The play was specifically designed for Ford, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 345 pounds, allowing him to leverage his size and athleticism in an unconventional role for an offensive lineman.

Joe Burrow, initially aiming for star receiver Ja'Marr Chase, demonstrated quick thinking and adaptability by redirecting the pass to Ford.

Between the lines: The decision to involve Ford in the passing game underscores a creative approach by the Bengals' coaching staff.

“I threw it to him early in the week in practice as a joke,” Burrow said, highlighting the playful nature of the design that turned into a successful play.

Coach Taylor’s confidence in Ford’s ability to catch the ball speaks to the team’s overall commitment to versatility on offense.

Yes, but: While Ford’s reception was a highlight, the Bengals will need to continue improving if they hope to make a late-season push.

Despite the win, the Bengals have struggled throughout the season, and maintaining momentum will be crucial in the upcoming games.

Taylor's quip about the likelihood of Ford receiving another touch—“Zero percent chance”—serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of NFL offenses and how rare such moments can be.

What to watch: As the season progresses, keep an eye on how the Bengals utilize their roster creatively moving forward.

The team's ability to adapt and innovate on offense could be a critical factor in maximizing their talents, especially with notable players like tight end Noah Fant dealing with injuries.

Opportunities for surprise plays could become more frequent as they seek to exploit mismatches against opposing defenses.

The bottom line: Cody Ford's moment in the spotlight is a testament to the unpredictability of football and the joy of achieving something extraordinary against all odds.

"Today will be with me for a long time, if not forever," Ford expressed, encapsulating the emotional significance of this day not just for him, but for a Bengals team searching for bright spots amidst a challenging season.