David Montgomery shines at home as Lions beat Bengals 37-24

When David Montgomery, the running back for Detroit Lions, stepped onto the field in his old neighborhood, the crowd felt a flash of nostalgia mixed with pure excitement.

The Lions rolled into Cincinnati on October 5, 2025, for a showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals. The game, officially part of the 2025 NFL Week 5 matchupCincinnati, Ohio, ended 37‑24 in Detroit’s favor, propelling the Lions to a 4‑1 start.

Homecoming Heroics

Montgomery hadn’t played a professional game within a stone’s throw of his childhood home in nearly a decade. Back then, he was the quarterback at Mount Held High School, tossing spirals in a cramped gym. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s pulling a stunt that reminded fans of those early days.

In the second quarter, after a burst of runs that put Detroit up 13‑0, Montgomery took a direct snap and, like a flashback, launched a three‑yard touchdown pass to tight end Brock Wright. The stadium erupted; the play was both a nod to his quarterback roots and a strategic surprise that left the Bengals scrambling.

Game Flow and Stats

Detroit set the tone early, scoring seven points in the opener, then matching it in the second quarter. By halftime, it was 14‑3. The third quarter saw the Lions explode for 14 more, stretching the lead to 28‑3. Even a modest nine‑point burst in the fourth quarter sealed the win.

• Montgomery rushed for 112 yards on 19 carries.
• He added the surprise pass for a total of 150 yards of offense.
• Brock Wright finished with three receptions for 45 yards and the touchdown.
• Detroit’s defense forced two turnovers, one of which led to a field goal.
• Cincinnati managed only a field goal before a late‑game rally produced 21 points, but it was too little, too late.

Overall, the Lions have out‑scored opponents 174‑112 through five games, a point differential that sits near the top of the NFC North.

Reactions from Coaches and Players

Head coach Dan Campbell praised Montgomery’s versatility: “He’s a true weapon. When he got that pass in, it reminded everybody he can do more than just run.” Montgomery, modest as ever, shrugged: “Just tried to give the guys a little something special. It felt good to bring it back home.”

The Bengals’ coach, Zac Taylor, admitted the early deficit was hard to shake: “We never got into the rhythm. Detroit’s offense was relentless, especially that trick play.”

Implications for the NFC North and AFC North

With the win, Detroit sits atop the NFC North at 4‑1, boasting a .800 winning percentage. The road win against a division rival signals that the Lions can thrive outside Ford Field, a key factor as the schedule tightens.

Conversely, Cincinnati falls to 2‑3, trailing the AFC North leaders, the Pittsburgh Steelers, at 3‑1. The Bengals have been out‑scored 156‑85 this season, indicating both offensive woes and defensive lapses that need fixing before the playoffs become a realistic goal.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

Next week, the Lions travel to face the Chicago Bears. A win there would lock in a two‑game lead in the division. For the Bengals, a home game against the Baltimore Ravens offers a chance to bounce back, but they’ll have to tighten up the secondary and get the run game going.

Both coaches know the margins are thin. One more loss and the standings shift; one more win and a team secures a playoff berth.

Background: Montgomery’s Journey

Montgomery entered the NFL as a fourth‑round pick in 2020. He spent his rookie season learning the ropes, gradually earning more carries. By 2022, he was Detroit’s leading rusher, and in 2024 he posted a career‑high 1,210 yards. Yet, his high‑school quarterback days at Mount Held High School remain a footnote that resurfaced in the most dramatic fashion during this game.

His ability to adapt—whether sprinting through a gap or launching a short pass—has made him a candidate for future Pro Bowl honors. The Bengals, meanwhile, continue to search for a consistent offensive identity under Taylor’s regime.

Broadcast and Media Coverage

The showdown aired on FOX Sports. Analysts repeatedly highlighted Montgomery’s “air it out like he did in Mount Held” comment, underscoring the blend of nostalgia and sheer athleticism.