The Cincinnati Bengals (5-10) host the Arizona Cardinals (3-12) this Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati for a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff on FOX. Both teams are eliminated from playoff contention in disappointing 2025 seasons, turning this late-season matchup into a battle for pride, momentum heading into the offseason, and potentially better draft positioning.

The Bengals enter on a high note after exploding for 45 points in a dominant Week 16 win over the Miami Dolphins. Joe Burrow looked sharp in his return from injury, throwing for over 300 yards with multiple touchdowns, while Ja'Marr Chase and the offense clicked efficiently. Chase Brown added a strong rushing performance, and the unit showed flashes of the explosiveness that has defined Cincinnati in recent years. However, the defense remains a major concern, ranking near the bottom of the league in points allowed (30.5 per game) and struggling against the pass and tight ends.

Arizona, meanwhile, is mired in a seven-game losing streak, most recently falling 26-19 to the Atlanta Falcons. With Kyler Murray sidelined for the season due to injury, Jacoby Brissett has been under center, leading an inconsistent offense that relies heavily on tight end Trey McBride (over 1,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns). The Cardinals' run game has been decimated by injuries to backs like James Conner and Trey Benson, leaving Michael Carter as the primary option. Defensively, Arizona has been porous, allowing 30+ points in several recent games, though they can keep things close against vulnerable units. Bengals are favored by about 7 points, with a high over/under around 53.5, reflecting expectations of a potential shootout given both teams' defensive woes and offensive talent. Burrow's presence gives Cincinnati a clear edge at quarterback, and home-field advantage in cold December weather could trouble the dome-accustomed Cardinals.

Key storylines include Burrow continuing to build momentum post-injury, McBride's dominance against a Bengals defense weak vs. tight ends, and whether Arizona can snap their skid against a team with more natural talent. Experts largely side with Cincinnati, but the Cardinals' ability to move the ball through the air could keep it competitive.

In a "meaningless" game for standings, look for fireworks and individual performances to shine. Bengals are poised to win, likely covering in a high-scoring affair.

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