49ers’ Unconventional Play Opens Scoring Against Cardinals

San Francisco 49ers use a hook-and-ladder play to score early against Arizona Cardinals. Deebo Samuel's 80-yard TD without a catch breaks records.

Editorial Desk

September 28, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Santa Clara, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers stunned the Arizona Cardinals with an unconventional scoring play in their Week 3 matchup.

On the 49ers’ third play from scrimmage, coach Kyle Shanahan called a hook-and-ladder play that resulted in an 82-yard touchdown. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. received a lateral from Mike Evans and sprinted down the sideline for the score, marking one of the most unusual touchdowns in NFL history.

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Samuel finished the game with zero catches but 80 yards and a touchdown, breaking the record for most yards in a game without a reception. The play was a first for the 49ers and showcased the team’s creative playbook as they secured a 36-30 victory over the Cardinals.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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