Vikings vs. Bengals NFL Game Week 2 | Sep 21, 2025

The Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for an intriguing inter-conference showdown in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season. Scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET, this game at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, promises a thrilling battle between two teams with playoff aspirations. Broadcast on CBS, with tickets starting at $161, Ticketmaster, and StubHub, fans have a fantastic opportunity to experience this matchup live or catch it from home. This game blends star power, strategic coaching, and the electric atmosphere of a passionate fanbase. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the game, including team insights, key players, viewing options, and tips for attending or watching.

A Compelling Inter-Conference Matchup

While the Vikings and Bengals don’t face off regularly, their encounters are often high-stakes affairs due to their shared reliance on dynamic quarterbacks and explosive offenses. The Bengals lead the all-time series 8-6, with their last meeting in 2023 resulting in a 27-24 Cincinnati overtime victory. This Week 3 clash offers the Vikings, who finished 9-8 in 2024, a chance to assert themselves as NFC North contenders under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Meanwhile, the Bengals, coming off a 10-7 season in 2024, aim to leverage their potent offense led by Joe Burrow to make a statement against a tough NFC opponent.

Both teams are built for postseason runs, with Minnesota banking on a revitalized offense and a fierce defense, and Cincinnati riding the momentum of Burrow’s return to elite form. This early-season game could provide critical momentum for either team as they navigate their respective divisions.

Game Details: When, Where, and How to Watch

• Date and Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET
• Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
• TV/Streaming: CBS (check local listings for channel numbers)
• Local Broadcast: WCCO (CBS/4) in Minneapolis, WKRC (CBS/12) in Cincinnati
• Radio: KFAN 100.3 FM (Minneapolis), WLW 700 AM (Cincinnati), SiriusXM channels 235 (Minnesota) and 236 (Cincinnati)
• Announcers: Ian Eagle (play-by-play), Charles Davis (color analyst), Evan Washburn (sideline)
• Streaming Options: Stream the game via Paramount+, the CBS Sports app, fuboTV, or YouTube TV, all offering free trials for new users. NFL+ provides mobile streaming for out-of-market fans, starting at $6.99/month.

CBS’s broadcast, featuring Ian Eagle’s energetic play-by-play and Charles Davis’s insightful analysis, ensures a top-notch viewing experience. Fans can stream the game through Paramount+ or the CBS Sports app with a cable login or via live TV streaming services like fuboTV, which offers a seven-day free trial. NFL+ is ideal for out-of-market viewers, providing live game audio and mobile streaming. Check your local CBS affiliate to confirm channel availability, as it varies by region.

Ticket Information: Experience U.S. Bank Stadium

Attending the game at U.S. Bank Stadium is a must for NFL fans, with its state-of-the-art facilities and raucous Vikings crowd. Tickets start at $161 through platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek, with prices varying based on seating location. Upper-level seats offer budget-friendly options, while lower-level and club seats provide premium views at higher costs. Given the game’s early-season significance and Minnesota’s passionate fanbase, tickets are expected to sell quickly.

To get the best deals, compare prices across platforms and opt for verified tickets to avoid scams. Pair your game-day experience with Vikings or Bengals gear from Fanatics, which offers jerseys, hats, and tailgating essentials. U.S. Bank Stadium’s iconic atmosphere, complete with the Gjallarhorn and “Skol” chant, makes this a bucket-list event for football fans.

Key Players to Watch

Minnesota Vikings

• J.J. McCarthy (QB): The 2024 first-round pick took over as starter in his rookie season, throwing for 2,876 yards, 17 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. His arm strength and mobility make him a rising star to watch against Cincinnati’s defense.
• Justin Jefferson (WR): The NFL’s premier receiver had another stellar year in 2024, with 92 catches for 1,385 yards and 10 touchdowns. His ability to dominate one-on-one matchups will test Cincinnati’s secondary.
• Aaron Jones (RB): Jones, acquired in 2024, rushed for 1,076 yards and eight touchdowns, adding 321 receiving yards. His versatility could exploit gaps in Cincinnati’s run defense.
• Brian Flores (Defensive Coordinator): Flores’s aggressive schemes led to a top-10 defense (318.2 yards allowed per game) in 2024. His creative blitz packages will aim to pressure Burrow.

Cincinnati Bengals

• Joe Burrow (QB): Burrow returned to elite form in 2024, throwing for 4,312 yards, 30 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. His precision and poise under pressure make him a matchup nightmare.
• Ja’Marr Chase (WR): Chase led the Bengals with 96 catches for 1,426 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024. His explosiveness will challenge Minnesota’s secondary, led by Byron Murphy Jr.
• Tee Higgins (WR): Higgins complemented Chase with 79 catches for 1,042 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. His size and contested-catch ability add another dimension to Cincinnati’s attack.
• Zac Taylor (Head Coach): Taylor’s offensive creativity has unlocked Cincinnati’s potential. His ability to scheme open receivers against Minnesota’s aggressive defense will be key.

Game Preview: What to Expect on the Field

This matchup features two offenses built around star quarterbacks and dynamic playmakers, paired with defenses aiming to disrupt. The Vikings’ offense, ranked ninth in scoring (24.6 points per game in 2024), thrives on Jefferson’s big plays and Jones’s versatility. Their defense, seventh in points allowed (19.8 per game), excels at generating turnovers, with safety Harrison Smith anchoring the secondary.

The Bengals’ offense, ranked fourth in yards (389.7 per game in 2024), relies on Burrow’s precision and the Chase-Higgins duo. Their defense, 14th in yards allowed (329.3 per game), has improved under coordinator Lou Anarumo, with linebacker Logan Wilson leading the way. Key battles to watch include:

• Vikings’ O-line vs. Bengals’ D-line: Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson (11 sacks in 2024) will target Minnesota’s tackles to disrupt McCarthy’s rhythm.
• Ja’Marr Chase vs. Byron Murphy Jr.: Minnesota’s top corner (three INTs in 2024) must contain Chase to limit Cincinnati’s explosive plays.
• Red Zone Efficiency: Cincinnati’s 59.8% red zone touchdown rate (seventh in NFL) faces Minnesota’s stingy red zone defense (49.1% TDs allowed, fifth in NFL).

Weather in Minneapolis could play a role, but U.S. Bank Stadium’s indoor setting ensures ideal conditions. Expect a fast-paced, high-scoring game driven by both teams’ passing attacks.

Viewing Experience: CBS’s Sunday Afternoon Broadcast

CBS’s broadcast, with Ian Eagle, Charles Davis, and Evan Washburn, delivers a dynamic viewing experience, blending sharp play-by-play with expert analysis. The CBS Sports app enhances the experience with live stats, player tracking, and alternate camera angles. Local viewers in Minneapolis and Cincinnati can tune into WCCO or WKRC, while streaming services like Paramount+ and YouTube TV offer flexibility for cord-cutters. NFL+ is perfect for out-of-market fans, providing live audio and mobile streaming.

To ensure a seamless viewing experience, test your streaming setup in advance and consider a high-speed internet connection for HD quality. Pair your watch party with team-themed snacks and beverages to capture the game-day vibe.

Why This Game Matters

This inter-conference clash carries significant implications for both teams. A Vikings win would bolster their NFC North credentials and build confidence against a strong AFC opponent. For the Bengals, a victory would reinforce their status as AFC North contenders and provide momentum for their playoff push. The game also showcases two passionate fanbases, with Minnesota’s “Skol” chant and Cincinnati’s “Who Dey” spirit adding to the atmosphere.

Fan Tips: How to Prepare

• Get Your Gear: Show your team pride with Vikings or Bengals apparel from Fanatics. From Justin Jefferson jerseys to Joe Burrow hoodies, there’s gear for every fan.
• Watch Party Setup: Set up your Paramount+ or CBS Sports app early to avoid technical issues. A large screen and surround sound can elevate the experience.
• Stay Connected: Follow @Vikings and @Bengals on social media for pregame content, live updates, and highlights. The NFL app offers real-time stats and exclusive content.
• Betting Insights: Per FanDuel, the Bengals are slight favorites at -135, with the Vikings at +115. The over/under is set at 48.5 points, suggesting a high-scoring affair.

The Vikings vs. Bengals Week 3 matchup is a must-watch inter-conference battle, blending star quarterbacks, explosive offenses, and playoff implications. Whether you’re cheering from U.S. Bank Stadium or watching on CBS, this game promises intense action and unforgettable moments. Secure your tickets, don your team colors, and get ready for a Sunday afternoon filled with NFL excitement.