Colts vs Dolphins | NFL Season Week 1 | Sep 7, 2025
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The Indianapolis Colts (0-0) and Miami Dolphins (0-0) kick off their 2025 campaigns with a Week 1 battle at Lucas Oil Stadium. Scheduled for Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET, the game will be broadcast on CBS, featuring commentators like Kevin Harlan, Trent Green, and Melanie Collins on the sidelines. Streaming options include Paramount+ (live for local markets), NFL+ for mobile and in-market viewers, and Fubo, which offers a free trial for fans looking to catch the game alongside other Week 1 action. Local radio coverage is available on 93.5/107.5 The Fan and 97.1 HANK FM in Indianapolis, with Matt Taylor, Rick Venturi, and Larra Overton calling the action. Miami fans can tune into 103.5 The Beat (WMIB) or other local stations like WFOR-TV (Ch. 4). National listeners can access the game on SiriusXM or Westwood One.
This Week 1 matchup marks a rare season-opening meeting between the Colts and Dolphins, who last faced off in 2021, with Indianapolis winning 27-17. Tickets for the game, available through Ticketmaster and secondary platforms like StubHub, are in high demand due to the excitement surrounding both teams’ young quarterbacks and playoff aspirations. With Lucas Oil Stadium’s retractable roof likely open for the September weather, fans are in for a vibrant game-day experience.
The Rivalry: Colts vs. Dolphins
While not a traditional rivalry, the Colts-Dolphins matchup has produced memorable moments since their first meeting in 1970, with Indianapolis leading the all-time series 47-27-2. The teams have split their last four encounters, with Miami’s 16-10 victory in 2019 marking their most recent win. In 2024, the Colts and Dolphins did not face each other, making this Week 1 clash a fresh opportunity to renew their competition. The stakes are high, as both teams aim to establish early momentum in the AFC, where playoff spots are fiercely contested.
The Colts, coming off a 9-8 season in 2024 that saw them narrowly miss the playoffs, are led by second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson and head coach Shane Steichen, whose innovative play-calling has revitalized the franchise. The Dolphins, who finished 6-11 in 2024 but showed flashes of brilliance under Mike McDaniel, rely on Tua Tagovailoa’s quick-release passing and a dynamic offense. This game pits two teams with contrasting styles—Indianapolis’ physical, run-heavy approach against Miami’s speed-driven, pass-oriented attack—setting the stage for a fascinating tactical battle.
Indianapolis Colts: Building Around a Rising Star
The Colts enter 2025 with high expectations after a promising 2024 season. Despite missing the playoffs, they ranked ninth in total offense (349.6 yards per game) and seventh in rushing (135.2 yards per game), thanks to the dual-threat prowess of Anthony Richardson and running back Jonathan Taylor. Richardson, who played 15 games in 2024, threw for 2,927 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while rushing for 664 yards and seven scores. Taylor, a 2021 All-Pro, ran for 1,336 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning a contract extension. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. led the team with 92 receptions for 1,108 yards and six touchdowns, forming a reliable target for Richardson.
Defensively, the Colts were solid, ranking 12th in total defense (329.4 yards allowed per game) and 10th against the run (104.8 yards allowed). Standouts like defensive end Kwity Paye (8.5 sacks in 2024) and linebacker Zaire Franklin (152 tackles) anchor a unit that thrives on physicality. The offseason saw Indianapolis bolster its secondary with draft picks like cornerback Cam Smith and safety Jalen Pitre, aiming to counter Miami’s explosive passing game. With a tough 2025 schedule featuring four 2024 playoff teams in the first six weeks, a Week 1 win at home is critical for building confidence and setting the tone.
Miami Dolphins: Speed and Resilience
The Dolphins’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster, finishing 6-11 due to injuries and inconsistency but showing glimpses of their potential. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, despite missing three games, threw for 3,821 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a 69.3% completion rate, ranking among the NFL’s most efficient passers. Wide receivers Tyreek Hill (1,297 yards, 11 touchdowns) and Jaylen Waddle (884 yards, six touchdowns) remain one of the league’s most dynamic duos, while rookie running back De’Von Achane added 987 rushing yards and eight touchdowns at 4.9 yards per carry. Miami’s offense ranked sixth in passing (250.7 yards per game) but struggled on the ground (22nd, 97.1 yards per game).
Defensively, the Dolphins faced challenges, ranking 20th in total defense (351.2 yards allowed per game) and 25th against the run (134.6 yards allowed). Safety Jevon Holland and linebacker David Long Jr. led a unit that forced 22 turnovers (eighth in the NFL) but struggled to stop big plays. The offseason saw Miami draft edge rusher Chop Robinson and cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine to address defensive weaknesses. With a 2025 schedule that includes road games against Buffalo and Kansas City in the first month, a victory in Indianapolis could provide a crucial early boost for McDaniel’s squad.
Key Matchups to Watch
This game will be defined by several pivotal matchups that highlight the strengths and challenges of both teams:
- Anthony Richardson vs. Tua Tagovailoa: The quarterback duel pits Richardson’s dual-threat dynamism against Tagovailoa’s pinpoint accuracy. Richardson’s ability to extend plays with his legs could test Miami’s 16th-ranked pass defense (216.6 yards allowed per game), while Tagovailoa’s quick reads will challenge Indianapolis’ improved secondary.
- Jonathan Taylor vs. Dolphins’ Run Defense: Taylor’s physical running style will target Miami’s vulnerable run defense. If the Colts establish the ground game early, it could open up play-action opportunities for Richardson.
- Tyreek Hill vs. Colts’ Secondary: Hill’s speed and route-running make him a constant deep threat. Indianapolis’ cornerbacks, led by JuJu Brents and rookie Cam Smith, must prevent big plays to keep Miami’s offense in check.
- Colts’ Offensive Line vs. Dolphins’ Pass Rush: Indianapolis’ offensive line, anchored by Quenton Nelson, will face Miami’s front, led by Zach Sieler and rookie Chop Robinson. Protecting Richardson from pressure will be key to sustaining drives.
Historical Context and Stakes
The Colts and Dolphins have a rich history, with Indianapolis dominating recent matchups, winning four of the last five games since 2012. Their last meeting, a 27-17 Colts victory in 2021, saw Carson Wentz outduel Tagovailoa in a tight contest. This 2025 opener is only the third time the teams have met in Week 1, with Indianapolis winning both prior encounters (1977 and 1988). The game carries significant weight, as both teams face crowded AFC playoff races, with the Colts in the competitive AFC South and the Dolphins in the tough AFC East.
For Indianapolis, a win would build momentum for a challenging early schedule that includes road games against Houston and Baltimore. For Miami, a road victory would signal resilience after a tough 2024 and set the stage for divisional battles against Buffalo and the Jets. With both teams eyeing postseason berths, this game is a critical early test of their playoff credentials.
Fan Experience and Atmosphere
Lucas Oil Stadium will be buzzing with energy as Colts fans fill the stands to cheer on their team’s quest for a playoff return. The “Blue Crew” will create a raucous environment, especially with the possibility of an open roof enhancing the game-day vibe. Dolphins fans, known for their vibrant road support, will add to the atmosphere, bringing a splash of aqua and orange to Indianapolis. Pregame festivities include “Colts Pregame Huddle” at 11:00 AM ET on WTTV CBS4, with postgame coverage on “Colts Postgame Show.” The Colts will wear their classic blue jerseys and white pants, a nod to their storied tradition.
Tickets, available through Ticketmaster and StubHub, are selling quickly due to the excitement surrounding Richardson and Tagovailoa. Fans unable to attend can follow along on social media, with the NFL, Colts, and Dolphins accounts on platforms like X providing real-time updates and highlights. NFL Network’s Schedule Release ’25 on May 14, 2025, offers additional analysis of this game and the full season slate.
Predictions and Expectations
Early projections from FanDuel Sportsbook favor the Colts by 4.5 points, reflecting their home-field advantage and balanced roster. The over/under is set at 45.5 points, suggesting a competitive game with potential for offensive fireworks given both teams’ playmakers. Indianapolis’ ability to control the trenches and lean on Taylor’s running could give them an edge, but Miami’s speed and passing attack make them a dangerous underdog.
Analysts anticipate a close contest, with the Colts’ physicality potentially wearing down Miami’s defense late. However, Tagovailoa’s efficiency and Hill’s big-play ability could keep the Dolphins in the game. The prediction: a 30-27 Colts victory, with Richardson connecting on a late touchdown pass to Pittman Jr. to secure the win, though Miami keeps it tight with a fourth-quarter rally.
How to Watch and Follow Along
- Date and Time: Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET
- Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
- TV: CBS
- Streaming: Paramount+, NFL+ (mobile/local), Fubo (free trial)
- Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan, 97.1 HANK FM (Indianapolis); 103.5 The Beat (Miami); SiriusXM, Westwood One
- Tickets: Available through Ticketmaster and StubHub
Fans can stay engaged through the Colts and Dolphins mobile apps, offering live stats, scores, and breaking news. The official team websites (colts.com and miamidolphins.com) provide game blogs and postgame breakdowns for in-depth coverage.
The Colts vs. Dolphins Week 1 clash on September 7, 2025, is a captivating AFC battle that showcases two teams with playoff aspirations and dynamic young quarterbacks. With Indianapolis leaning on its physicality and Miami countering with speed and precision, this game promises to be a thrilling start to the 2025 NFL season. From the star power of Richardson, Taylor, Tagovailoa, and Hill to the electric atmosphere at Lucas Oil Stadium, this matchup has all the ingredients for a memorable opener. Whether you’re watching on CBS, streaming on Paramount+, or cheering in the stands, get ready for a high-energy showdown as these teams battle for an early edge in the AFC.
