Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins etched his name into NFL history with a historic performance during the Week 9 matchup against the Chicago Bears, marking the ninth consecutive home game in which he has recorded a touchdown reception. This achievement places Higgins in an exclusive club, joining legendary wide receiver Jerry Rice and Hall of Famer Cris Carter as the only players to accomplish this milestone. The game’s turning point came in the first half when Flacco connected with Higgins in a critical moment as he launched a pass near the sideline. Higgins, with remarkable agility, leapt over Bears defensive back Nahshon Wright to secure the catch and score a touchdown that put the Bengals ahead 20-17.
The performance was not only a testament to Higgins’ physical prowess but also a significant milestone in his career, as he reached 5,000 yards receiving. The Bengals’ offensive efforts were highlighted by their explosive start, beginning with Charlie Jones’ 98-yard kickoff return touchdown. This was followed by Evan McPherson’s two field goals, which contributed to a 20-17 Bengals lead. Meanwhile, the Bears’ quarterback, Caleb Williams, also had an impressive game, posting 136 rushing yards and scoring touchdowns through both a pass and a catch. The first-half action featured a trick play by Bears head coach Ben Johnson, where Williams caught a pass from D.J. Moore, showcasing the strategic depth on both sides. Both teams managed only one sack each, indicating a largely controlled game in terms of offensive consistency.
Higgins’ milestone achievement not only underscores his status as one of the league’s premier receivers but also cements his legacy as a player capable of reaching rare levels of excellence. With this performance, the Bengals continued to build on their strong season as they pursue a playoff berth. The victory and Higgins’ historic performance highlighted the competitive nature of the NFL and the impact of individual performances on team success.