The Cincinnati Bengals (4-10) close out their road slate Sunday in Miami against the Dolphins (6-8) in a game devoid of playoff implications for Cincy but rich with opportunity. After being officially eliminated from postseason contention, Zac Taylor’s club has a chance to build momentum into 2026 and reestablish competitive identity over the final three weeks.

Offensively, Joe Burrow and his talented receiving corps will look to bounce back from a tough shutout loss to Baltimore, where Burrow was held to 225 yards with two interceptions and Ja’Marr Chase still showed elite playmaking ability. Getting the offense untracked is priority one, and fresh legs in the passing game — particularly from Chase and whoever emerges as a No. 2 option — could exploit a Dolphins secondary missing playmakers at times.

Cincinnati’s defense, however, enters with concerns. The interior defensive line has taken hits with B.J. Hill and Kris Jenkins Jr. trending toward inactivity, and Joseph Ossai’s ankle issues further weaken pass-rush depth. That could challenge a Miami attack transitioning to rookie Quinn Ewers under center after benching Tua Tagovailoa amid a season leading the league in interceptions.

From a scheme standpoint, the Bengals can attack a Dolphins defense that has been inconsistent against the run and susceptible in the secondary — offering a blueprint for Cincinnati to sustain drives and flip field position. Turnovers and discipline will be key; forcing mistakes from an inexperienced Miami QB could tilt the game.

Ultimately, while the Bengals aren’t fighting for a playoff spot, Sunday serves as a referendum on effort, growth, and offseason trajectory. A strong road performance — especially in a physical division battle — can boost confidence and spotlight emerging core pieces heading into 2026.

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