Dolphins vs. Patriots: AFC East Rivalry Closes Out Regular Season in Week 18
The Miami Dolphins (7-9) head north to face the New England Patriots (13-3) in a Week 18 matchup with major playoff seeding implications for the home team. New England has already clinched the AFC East title and is battling for the AFC’s No. 1 seed and first-round bye. A win, combined with a Denver loss, would lock it up for the Patriots. Miami, eliminated from postseason contention, looks to play spoiler in this longtime division rivalry.
Game Details: Date, Time & Location
- Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026
- Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET / 1:25 p.m. PT
- Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
This late-afternoon showdown is part of the NFL’s Week 18 slate, with the Patriots aiming to cap a strong regular season on a high note in front of the home crowd.
How to Watch & Stream
- TV: FOX (national broadcast in select markets; check local listings)
- Streaming Options:
- NFL+ (mobile devices, replays, and highlights)
- FuboTV (includes FOX; free trial available)
- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV (verify FOX inclusion in your area)
- FOX Sports app (with cable login)
Radio coverage available on local Dolphins and Patriots flagship stations or SiriusXM.
Tickets are still available through official team sites or resale platforms like StubHub — expect a playoff-like atmosphere as New England pushes for top seeding.
Why It Matters
New England, led by rookie sensation Drake Maye, is riding high after clinching the division with a dominant win over the Jets. They’re in the mix for the AFC’s top spot, needing a victory here and help from the Chargers against Denver. Miami wants to end the season strong and potentially disrupt those plans, building momentum into the offseason. These teams split their season series earlier, with the Patriots taking a close 33-27 win in Week 2.
Catch this classic AFC East clash to wrap up the 2025 regular season — high stakes for one side, pride on the line for the other!
