WATCH: Denzel Ward returns pick-six 100 yards against Bengals
Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward came away with the first touchdown of the game Sunday against Cincinnati, returning a pick-six 100 yards. Just when it looked liked Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow had a score on the way, Ward stepped in front of a pass in the end zone.
He then sprinted past several Bengals on his way to the opposite end zone to give Cleveland an early 7-0 lead.
This game has huge implications in the AFC North standings, which are currently incredibly tight. The Baltimore Ravens, whom the Bengals have beaten once already, are currently in first place at 5-2. However, they have played one less game so far.
Ward, a Pro Bowl cornerback, is in his fourth season in the NFL. After spending his college career at Ohio State, the Browns kept him local by taking him fourth overall in 2018.
Undeterred, Cincinnati marched back down the field on the next drive. Running back Joe Mixon capped that off with an 11-yard touchdown run.
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The Cleveland offense did not first take the field until there was 4:10 remaining in the first quarter. They finished that drive with a Nick Chubb touchdown run. The next time the Browns touched the ball, Baker Mayfield found Donovan Peoples-Jones for a 60-yard touchdown.
As of 4:10, Cleveland held a 24-7 lead. In addition to the interception, they also forced a fumble in the second quarter.
The Browns entered the game at 4-4, last in the division standings. They can change that with a victory, and by the appearance of things they are off to a great start, led by the pick-six from Denzel Ward.
Following this game against the Bengals, Cleveland stays on the road as it will take on the New England Patriots in Week 10. The Browns made their first playoff appearance this 2002 this past season, and are on a journey to add to that in 2021.