Miami Heats Up as Colts Come to Town in Preseason Opener
The 2025 NFL season officially kicks off its preseason schedule with one of the most intriguing matchups of Week 1—🏈 Colts at Dolphins, taking place Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET. This inter-conference battle at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens sets the tone for two franchises headed in different yet equally compelling directions.
The Indianapolis Colts, led by second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, are poised to showcase a dynamic offense built on athleticism and creativity. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins, one of the AFC’s most electric teams in 2024, return with Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and a track team offense that torched defenses last year.
This preseason game is more than just a warm-up—it’s a glimpse at potential playoff contenders, rookie evaluations, and evolving strategies from both coaching staffs.
📅 Game Details
- Matchup: 🏈 Colts at Dolphins
- Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
- TV Broadcast: NFL Network (national), CBS (local)
- Streaming: NFL+, fuboTV, Hulu Live, YouTube TV
- Radio: 560 WQAM (Miami), 93.5 The Fan (Indianapolis)
- Tickets: as low as $62
🧠 Coaching Chess Match: McDaniel vs. Steichen
Miami’s Mike McDaniel has quickly built a reputation as one of the NFL’s most creative offensive minds. Under his leadership, the Dolphins became the league’s top-scoring offense in the first half of 2024, fueled by pre-snap motion, play-action, and speed mismatches.
On the other sideline, Shane Steichen continues to mold a young Colts roster around the dual-threat capabilities of Anthony Richardson. Coming off a strong 2024 that saw glimpses of brilliance from Richardson before injury, Steichen enters 2025 looking to refine and expand the playbook.
This preseason opener provides both coaches the opportunity to unveil schematic wrinkles and evaluate second-stringers within their respective systems.
🔍 Colts 2025 Outlook: Building Momentum with Young Core
The Colts enter the 2025 campaign with optimism. After finishing 9-8 in 2024, missing the playoffs by one game, Indianapolis believes they’re on the verge of something special. The offense has been rebuilt around Richardson, while the defense features ascending talents like Kwity Paye, Julius Brents, and Zaire Franklin.
Key Colts Storylines
- Anthony Richardson’s Command: Look for increased poise and chemistry in Year 2.
- Jonathan Taylor’s Usage: After a resurgent 2024, his preseason workload will be closely monitored.
- WR Depth Watch: Rookie wideout Keyshawn Barnes has impressed in training camp.
- Defensive Versatility: Gus Bradley is mixing up more nickel and dime packages to keep pace with modern NFL offenses.
🌴 Dolphins 2025 Outlook: Speed, Swagger, and Super Bowl Aspirations
The Dolphins are once again legitimate contenders in the AFC. With a loaded roster that includes Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Raheem Mostert, and an upgraded offensive line, expectations in Miami are higher than ever.
Defensively, Vic Fangio’s system started clicking late in 2024, and now with Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips, and a healthy Jalen Ramsey, the Dolphins boast a dangerous and experienced unit.
Key Dolphins Storylines
- Tua’s Control of the Offense: Coming off a 4,500+ yard season, he enters his prime with more protection and deeper chemistry.
- Increased Role for Achane: Running back De’Von Achane is expected to be more involved in both rushing and passing.
- Rookie Spotlight: First-round edge rusher Jett Harmon is a must-watch in the second half.
- Offensive Line Depth: Injury-prone in 2024, the depth will be tested early and often in this game.
🔥 Players to Watch: Who Will Shine in 🏈 Colts at Dolphins?
Colts
- Anthony Richardson (QB) – Expect limited snaps, but every rep is valuable.
- Josh Downs (WR) – Entering his second year, he’s a breakout candidate.
- Julius Brents (CB) – Tall, athletic, and looking to become CB1.
- Dayo Odeyingbo (DE) – His speed off the edge will be tested against Miami’s tackles.
Dolphins
- Tua Tagovailoa (QB) – Likely to play just one series, but his timing will be evaluated.
- Tyreek Hill (WR) – May not play, but his presence impacts defensive alignment.
- Jalen Ramsey (CB) – Coming back from injury, could see live reps.
- Jett Harmon (DE) – Rookie edge rusher expected to get extended playing time.
📊 Position Battles Heating Up
Colts
- WR3 Spot: Alec Pierce vs. Keyshawn Barnes
- Safety Rotation: Rodney Thomas II vs. Nick Cross
- Left Guard Battle: Quenton Nelson is locked, but who’s next in the rotation?
Dolphins
- RB3 Race: Salvon Ahmed vs. rookie Trey Benson
- Backup QB: Mike White vs. Skylar Thompson
- Nickel Corner: Kader Kohou vs. Cam Smith
🧪 Preseason Objectives: Evaluation, Execution, and Energy
Preseason isn’t just about who wins. Coaches and GMs are looking for:
- Discipline: Fewer flags often predict strong regular season habits.
- Execution Under Pressure: How do backups and rookies perform in live-action?
- Injury Avoidance: Keeping starters healthy is the hidden MVP stat of preseason.
- Chemistry Building: Especially for quarterbacks with new weapons or linemen.
📺 How to Watch 🏈 Colts at Dolphins Live
Whether you’re in Indianapolis, Miami, or watching nationally, there are multiple ways to tune in:
- TV Broadcast: NFL Network (National), CBS (Local Markets)
- Streaming Platforms:
- NFL+ (mobile/tablet)
- fuboTV
- Hulu Live TV
- YouTube TV
- Radio Coverage:
- Dolphins Radio: 560 WQAM
- Colts Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan
Check local listings for blackout restrictions or alternative channels.
🏟️ Hard Rock Stadium: Game Day Experience
The Dolphins’ home stadium provides one of the most festive and scenic backdrops in the league. With shaded seating, beach vibes, and fan zones loaded with entertainment, it’s an experience like no other.
- Gates Open: 10:30 AM ET
- Parking Lots: Open 3.5 hours prior to kickoff
- Fan Events: Live DJ, Dolphins alumni autographs, kids’ play zone
- Security Note: Clear bag policy and digital tickets required
📈 Historical Head-to-Head: 🏈 Colts at Dolphins
- All-Time Series: Colts lead 49–27
- Last Meeting: Dolphins defeated Colts 27-21 (2023 Regular Season)
- Preseason Record: Dolphins lead 6–4 in 10 all-time preseason meetings
Although preseason matchups don’t reflect the full arsenal, the Colts and Dolphins have a history of producing fast-paced, competitive battles—even when the games don’t count.
🗣️ Expert Predictions
Dolphins 26, Colts 17
Analysts expect the Dolphins’ depth and offensive cohesion to carry them past the young Colts. With backup QBs likely playing most of the snaps, expect Miami to test their vertical passing game early.
- Player of the Game: De’Von Achane (RB) – Could break off a long run
- Breakout Rookie: Jett Harmon (DE) – Will make his presence felt
- Surprise Performer: Skylar Thompson – May shine in the second half
🧩 What to Watch For in 🏈 Colts at Dolphins
- How does Richardson manage the offense in Year 2?
- Will Miami’s defense look faster and more aggressive?
- Can rookies on both sides force turnovers or game-changing plays?
- Which fringe players move up the roster bubble?
- Are any schematic changes noticeable in Miami’s or Indy’s offense?
📌 Final Word: Why 🏈 Colts at Dolphins Matters This Sunday
The 🏈 Colts at Dolphins preseason matchup may be a non-counting game, but it’s filled with evaluation, storytelling, and critical roster decisions. For the Colts, it’s about showcasing their young stars and affirming their direction. For the Dolphins, it’s about building off a playoff appearance and hunting for AFC dominance.
Fans tuning in will see the first sparks of what could be a defining season for both franchises. Even in the heat of a Miami September, the football action will be just as fiery.
So grab your jersey, check your fantasy watchlist, and get ready—NFL football is back.