Rodgers makes NFL history as Vikings rout Bengals in first-half showcase
Cornerback Isaiah Rodgers records a pick-six, a fumble return for a touchdown and two forced fumbles in a single game as Minnesota blows out Cincinnati 48-10
The Minnesota Vikings routed the Cincinnati Bengals 48-10 on Sunday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium, with cornerback Isaiah Rodgers delivering a record-setting defensive performance. Rodgers became the first player in NFL history to record a pick-six, a fumble returned for a touchdown and two forced fumbles in a single game, all in the first half as Minnesota built a 34-3 lead.
Rodgers opened the historic day with a game-changing play off Jake Browning. The ball was tipped by safety Harrison Smith, and Rodgers intercepted Browning and raced 87 yards down the left sideline for a touchdown that put Minnesota on top early.
In the second quarter, Rodgers flashed again. He tracked down tight end Noah Fant and forced a fumble, then recovered it and ran 66 yards for another score. Moments later, he added a second forced fumble, ripping the ball from Ja’Marr Chase’s hands. Rodgers also made a key one-on-one stop to save a touchdown on Tee Higgins later in the drive.
The Vikings extended the cushion to 34-3 by halftime and kept control in the second half. Minnesota quarterback Carson Wentz, starting with J.J. McCarthy sidelined by injury, completed 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards with two touchdowns. Running back Jordan Mason added 116 rushing yards and two scores on 16 carries, while tight ends T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver each caught a touchdown pass from Wentz.
This game also underscored the Bengals’ quarterback situation. Joe Burrow, who suffered a turf toe injury last week against the Jaguars, is expected to require surgery to repair the issue, leaving Jake Browning as the likely starter for Cincinnati until further notice. The lopsided score underscored the challenges Cincinnati faces as they navigate Burrow’s status and a reshuffled lineup.
The performance by Rodgers and the Vikings’ defense was a milestone moment in a season that has already featured upheaval across the league. The Vikings improved to 2-1, and Rodgers’ day will be remembered as one of the most unique single-game defensive feats in league history.
