Cincinnati Bengals

Dennard's preparation, patience pay off for Bengals

Published Oct. 20, 2015 4:52 p.m. ET

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It still hasn't quite hit Bengals cornerback Darqueze Dennard that he recorded his first career interception in Sunday's win over the Buffalo Bills, even if it came as a result of his time in the film room.

It took six games into his second season for Dennard to get an opportunity to make an impact, and the former first-round pick made the most of his career-high 47 snaps in place of the injured Leon Hall. While he's patiently waited for his chance to play, Dennard has always preached that he'd be preparing himself to play. He paid close attention while watching film of the Bills' game-winning touchdown against Tennessee from the previous week, and noticed the same look in the first quarter in Buffalo.

“No. 15 [Chris Hogan] was the guy that ended the Titans game with a deep ball and he gave me the same release,” Dennard said via Bengals.com. “So I was looking for him to go. Then when I saw the ball in the air, I went up attacked it.”

Dennard's strong play didn't end there, as he allowed just one catch for five yards on the day. He's undoubtedly hoping for more playing time, but for now he's grateful just to have a chance. 

“I’m still kind of shocked from it to be honest,” Dennard said. “How many people can say they have an NFL interception?”

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