CINCINNATI – Led by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder leading the NFL in completion percentage (83.3) and picking up a 24-10 victory against the Carolina Panthers, 14 former Bearcats saw action in the NFL's opening week.
 
The trio of Tyler Scott, Josh Whyle and Ivan Pace Jr made their debuts.  
 
Linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. starred for the Minnesota Vikings in his first professional action with eight total tackles and a quarterback hit. Chicago Bears wide receiver Tyler Scott hauled in a pair of receptions for 14 yards and tight end Josh Whyle drew valuable action for the Tennessee Titans.  
 
Ridder entered his first full season as the starter and led the Falcons to a home win over their divisional opponent. Ridder completed 15-18 passes for 115 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers.  
 
Future Hall of Fame center Jason Kelce entered his 13th season with Philadelphia Eagles and paved the way in a tough 25-20 road win over the New England Patriots. 
 
First-Team All-Pro and Defensive Rookie of the Year cornerback Sauce Gardner totaled three tackles while being tasked with limiting the Buffalo Bills' high-powered offense on the highly anticipated Monday Night Football matchup.  
 
Gardner quickly established himself as one of the league's premiere shutdown cornerbacks in 2022-23, becoming the first rookie cornerback to earn All-Pro honors in 41 years. He led the NFL with 20 pass breakups and only allowed a 53.9 passer rating when targeted last season.  
 
Gardner was joined by 2021 Bearcats' secondary teammates Coby Bryant and Bryan Cook, who also showed out in week one.  
 
Seattle Seahawks cornerback Coby Bryant finished second on the team with nine tackles - seven solo - and one quarterback hit against the Los Angeles Rams, while Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook recorded eight tackles and a fumble recovery to kick off their second seasons.  
 
Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford rushed for 36 yards on 15 carries to help secure a 24-3 win full of inclement weather over the Cincinnati Bengals.  
 
Washington Commanders Darrick Forrest tallied five total tackles in a 20-16 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Houston Texans running back Mike Boone saw work in the passing game with three receptions for 18 yards, while Green Bay Packers linebacker Eric Wilson added three stops in a 38-20 win over the Chicago Bears.

Related Videos

Now Playing:

• Play Video