Cincinnati Bengals’ Cody Ford Shatters NFL Record with Unlikely 20-Yard Reception

An Arizona Cardinals defender made unfortunate NFL history in their Week 17 loss. The Cincinnati Bengals called an unusual trick play in the third quarter. It involved offensive lineman Cody Ford lining up as a wide receiver.

Quarterback Joe Burrow threw him a pass. Ford caught it and rumbled for over twenty yards. According to ESPN and NFL research, this set a new league record.

A Historic Play for the Heaviest Player

Senior researcher Dante Koplowitz-Fleming confirmed the record. Cody Ford, listed at 345 pounds, is now the heaviest player ever with a 20-plus yard scrimmage play. The previous record holder was not as heavy.

The play happened with the Bengals leading 30-7. It was a designed call from head coach Zac Taylor. Taylor said they practiced it all week.

This was not an isolated incident for the Cardinals’ defense. They allowed a touchdown catch to Buccaneers tackle Tristan Wirfs in Week 13. Atlanta’s Jake Matthews also nearly caught a score against them a week prior.

Reactions and a Season’s Symbolic Moment

The Bengals enjoyed the moment thoroughly. Joe Burrow said he thought it was a joke during practice. He progressed to Ford after his primary receiver was covered.

Burrow added such plays keep defenses off balance. He also said it was simply fun. Ford echoed the surprise.

Ford stated he thought Burrow was joking in practice. The team mentioned calling the play the night before the game. It worked perfectly against Arizona.

For the Cardinals, the play symbolized a difficult season. It highlighted defensive struggles in a 37-14 loss. The record-setting catch will be a notable footnote in the year’s history.

The unexpected NFL record set by Cody Ford underscores how creativity and execution can make history in any game situation.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who held the NFL record for heaviest player with a 20+ yard play before Cody Ford?

The previous record holder was not specified in the initial report. Dante Koplowitz-Fleming’s research confirmed Ford’s 345-pound frame set the new benchmark.

What was the final score of the Bengals vs. Cardinals game?

The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Arizona Cardinals by a score of 37-14. The record-breaking play occurred with the Bengals holding a large lead.

Did any other offensive lineman catch a pass against the Cardinals this season?

Yes. Tampa Bay’s Tristan Wirfs caught a touchdown pass against Arizona in Week 13. Atlanta’s Jake Matthews also had a drop on a similar play in Week 16.

Why do teams run trick plays with offensive linemen?

Coaches use them to surprise the defense and energize the team. As Joe Burrow noted, it keeps opponents off balance and adds a fun element to the game.

Was the play to Cody Ford a called pass or an improvisation?

It was a designed play called by coach Zac Taylor. The team practiced it multiple times during the week leading up to the game against Arizona.

Disclaimer: This news article is based on reports from credible sports media sources and official NFL research. All facts and statistics are presented as verified at the time of writing.