### Bengals vs. Dolphins: A Crucial Week 16 Showdown in the NFL The Cincinnati Bengals are set to face off against the Miami Dolphins in a pivotal Week 16 matchup of the NFL season on December 21, 2025. This game, taking place at Hard Rock Stadium, is significant for both teams as they look to improve their standings. The Bengals, currently at 4-10, are coming off a disappointing 24-0 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, while the Dolphins, with a record of 6-8, are looking to bounce back from a 28-15 defeat against the New York Jets. The matchup was originally scheduled for prime time but was flexed to a 1 p.m. ET kickoff, reflecting the changing dynamics of both teams' seasons and playoff aspirations [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/national-news/florida/what-channel-is-dolphins-vs-bengals-today-how-to-watch-week-16-game]. ### Breakdown of the Game's Structure and Predictions 1. **Game Overview** - Date and Time: December 21, 2025, at 1 p.m. ET - Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida - Broadcast: CBS and Paramount+ [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-dolphins-where-to-watch-nfl-week-16-betting-odds-score-prediction-sportsbook-promos-sgp-picks]. 2. **Team Performance Context** - Bengals: Struggling with a 4-10 record, they are looking to end the season on a high note after a series of losses [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/national-news/ohio/bengals-vs-dolphins-live-updates-tv-channel-for-nfl-week-16-game]. - Dolphins: At 6-8, they are still in contention for a playoff spot but need a win to keep their hopes alive [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/final-score-predictions-bengals-vs-135954500.html]. 3. **Key Players to Watch** - Bengals: Quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to lead the offense, while wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is a key target [https://foxsports1360.iheart.com/content/2025-12-19-joe-burrow-week-16-preview-vs-the-dolphins]. - Dolphins: Quarterback Quinn Ewers will be pivotal for Miami's offensive strategy, alongside standout players like Jaylen Waddle [https://foxsports940.iheart.com/content/2025-12-19-jaylen-waddle-week-16-preview-vs-the-bengals]. 4. **Betting Odds and Predictions** - Analysts predict a high-scoring game, with expectations for both teams to put up significant points [https://covers.com/nfl/bengals-vs-dolphins-prediction-picks-odds-best-bets-today-december-21-2025]. - The betting lines are closely contested, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding both teams' performances [https://www.si.com/betting/bengals-vs-dolphins-final-score-prediction-for-nfl-week-16-cincy-to-cover]. ### Summary of Key Insights and Conclusions In summary, the Bengals vs. Dolphins matchup is crucial for both teams as they navigate the final weeks of the NFL season. 1. **Current Standings**: The Bengals are struggling at 4-10, while the Dolphins are at 6-8, both needing a win to maintain playoff hopes. 2. **Key Players**: Joe Burrow for the Bengals and Quinn Ewers for the Dolphins are expected to be instrumental in their teams' performances. 3. **Game Dynamics**: The game is anticipated to be high-scoring, with analysts predicting a competitive matchup that could go either way. **Overall**, this Week 16 clash is not just about the win-loss record; it’s about pride, potential playoff implications, and the future of both franchises as they look to build momentum heading into the offseason [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/bengals-vs-dolphins-live-updates-170052492.html].