Montgomery Shines in Homecoming as Lions Duo Ties NFL Record in 37-24 Win Over Bengals.
A Special Homecoming
David Montgomery couldn’t hide his excitement all week. The Cincinnati native was finally getting to play an NFL game in his hometown, in front of his friends, family, and his sister Kiki, who was attending her first game since a 2024 car accident left her paralyzed.
When the moment came, Montgomery certainly made it count. The Detroit Lions running back scored twice, first on a short run, and again on an eight-yard touchdown in the third quarter, helping them to defeat the Bengals 37 to 24 for their fourth straight win.
“This was special,” Montgomery said after the game. “Having my sister here meant everything. I just wanted to make her proud and give my family something to smile about.”
Sonic and Knuckles Make History
Montgomery’s performance, combined with Jahmyr Gibbs' 20-yard touchdown catch, tied an NFL record for the most games where both running backs have scored. The duo, nicknamed Sonic and Knuckles for their mix of power and speed, now shares the record with former Dallas Cowboys legends Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnson.
Goff’s Detroit Legacy Takes Shape
Lions quarterback Jared Goff completed 19 of 23 passes for 258 yards and three touchdowns, continuing one of the most efficient stretches of his career. He also tied an NFL record after completing at least 70 percent of his passes in six consecutive games. Additionally, Sunday’s game marked his 70th regular-season start with Detroit, officially more than he played for the Los Angeles Rams.
Defense in Control
The Lions’ defense once again ultimately defined the game’s rhythm. Amik Robertson, Kerby Joseph, and Alex Anzalone each intercepted Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jake Browning, with two of those turnovers leading to touchdowns. Detroit defensive edge Aidan Hutchinson continued to disrupt the pocket with nine pressures and a forced fumble.
Lions Head coach Dan Campbell has praised the team’s relentlessness: “You can feel it, they want the ball. It’s Contagious.”
Looking Ahead
The Lions continue to find ways to win and reasons to believe. Montgomery’s return home was personal, and Goff’s milestone reflected how far this team has come since the day he arrived. Their connection mirrors the team’s transformation under Campbell: resilient, steady, and grounded in trust. The Lions left Cincinnati with a 4- 1 record and the feeling that something lasting is finally taking shape.