WEEK 5 PREVIEW: Do The Cincinnati Bengals Face A MUST-WIN Game vs Miami Dolphins | Injury Updates

The Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) head to South Florida for a critical Week 5 matchup against the winless Miami Dolphins (0-4) on Sunday, October 11, 2026. After dropping back-to-back games against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Jacksonville Jaguars, Joe Burrow, Zac Taylor and the Bengals are looking to get back on track before entering their bye week.
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On this episode of Chatterbox Bengals, we break down the biggest storylines, injury concerns, key matchups and players to watch as Cincinnati prepares to face Miami at Hard Rock Stadium.

The biggest questions surrounding the Bengals involve the health of star wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Chase is working through concussion protocol, while Higgins is dealing with an adductor injury suffered against Jacksonville. With both receivers' availability uncertain, Cincinnati could be forced to rely more heavily on its depth at wide receiver, tight end and running back.

Joe Burrow is also looking to rebound after a frustrating performance against the Jaguars that included costly interceptions. Can the Bengals quarterback eliminate the mistakes and get Cincinnati's offense back on track? And will Zac Taylor find a way to establish a more consistent rushing attack with Chase Brown after another disappointing performance on the ground?

Defensively, the Bengals have an opportunity to capitalize on a struggling Miami offense. The Dolphins enter Week 5 searching for their first victory of the season, with quarterback Malik Willis leading an offense that has struggled to consistently generate points. Cincinnati's defensive front, featuring Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen and Boye Mafe, will look to pressure Willis while limiting his ability to extend plays with his legs.

We also examine the Bengals' secondary, including Jordan Battle's tackling struggles, the injury concerns surrounding Bryan Cook and Kyle Dugger, and how defensive coordinator Al Golden can put his players in position to succeed.

On the other side, Miami's defense presents challenges of its own. Can the Bengals protect Burrow against the Dolphins' pass rush? Will Cincinnati's offensive line create enough opportunities for Chase Brown? And which players need to step up if the Bengals are without their top receiving weapons?

With a difficult road matchup against the Baltimore Ravens waiting after the bye, Cincinnati has an opportunity to enter its week off with a winning record and renewed momentum.