The Miami Dolphins (1-4) host the Los Angeles Chargers (3-2) this Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in a high-stakes, do-or-die matchup. Both teams are desperate for a win after last week’s frustrating losses, making this one a pivotal contest for momentum and playoff hopes.
Dolphins vs Chargers Match Details – Date, Time, and Venue
- Date: Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL
How to Watch Dolphins vs Chargers – TV and Streaming Info
- TV: CBS
- Streaming: Paramount+
- Radio: Local broadcasts on Miami and Los Angeles stations
Last Week’s Recap: Dolphins Lose to Panthers, Chargers Fall to Commanders
The Dolphins fell 27-24 to the Carolina Panthers, despite jumping to an early 17-0 lead. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa connected with De’Von Achane and Darren Waller for early touchdowns. Defensive plays from Bradley Chubb and Minkah Fitzpatrick gave Miami momentum, but Bryce Young and Rico Dowdle mounted a comeback. Dowdle rushed for 206 yards, and Young’s late touchdown to Mitchell Evans sealed the win.
The Chargers also struggled last week against Washington. After a 10-0 lead, a fumble by Quentin Johnston and multiple penalties erased progress. Washington scored 20 unanswered points, and a late fourth-and-2 drop by Tyler Conklin ended Los Angeles’ comeback hopes.
Key Players to Watch – Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert, Jaylen Waddle, Keenan Allen
Miami will rely on Tua Tagovailoa connecting with Jaylen Waddle, Darren Waller, and De’Von Achane to jumpstart their offense. The Chargers need Justin Herbert to lead with poise, targeting Keenan Allen and Jalen Guyton for big plays.
Dolphins Offensive Outlook – Tagovailoa, Waddle, Waller, Achane
Miami’s success hinges on Tua’s chemistry with his receivers. Waddle stretches the field with elite speed, Waller serves as a reliable red-zone target, and Achane adds explosiveness on both runs and receptions. Miami’s offensive line must protect Tagovailoa and create lanes for Achane to maximize scoring opportunities.
Chargers Offensive Strategy – Herbert, Allen, Guyton
The Chargers rely on Justin Herbert to maintain rhythm and precision. Keenan Allen remains the top target for sustaining drives, while Jalen Guyton adds deep-threat capability. Avoiding penalties and turnovers is crucial against a Miami defense that can capitalize quickly on mistakes.
Defensive Matchups to Watch – Brooks, Fitzpatrick, Phillips vs Chargers Weapons
Miami’s defensive front, led by Jordyn Brooks, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Jaelan Phillips, must disrupt Herbert’s timing. Linebackers and the secondary will look to contain Allen and Guyton, while Miami’s defensive backs and pass rush try to create turnovers. The Chargers’ defense will focus on slowing Tua and stopping Achane’s explosiveness.
Injury Updates – Dolphins and Chargers
Miami Dolphins:
- Tyrel Dodson (LB) – Out (concussion)
- Elijah Campbell (S) – Out
- Storm Duck (CB) – Questionable (ankle)
- Darren Waller (TE) – Questionable (hip/rest)
- Cedrick Wilson Jr. (WR) – Questionable (knee)
- Aaron Brewer (G) – Questionable
Los Angeles Chargers:
- Quentin Johnston (WR) – Questionable (hamstring)
- Scott Matlock (FB) – Questionable
- Derius Davis (WR) – Questionable (knee)
- Joe Alt (OT) – Questionable (ankle)
- Denzel Perryman (LB) – Returning from IR
- Trey Pipkins III (G) – Questionable
- Jamaree Salyer (G) – Questionable
- Bud Dupree (LB) – Questionable
- Omarion Hampton (RB) – Injured Reserve
Why This Game Matters – Playoff Implications and Do-or-Die Stakes
Both teams are under pressure. The Dolphins need a win to rebound from a 1-4 start, while the Chargers must recover from last week’s loss to stay competitive in the AFC playoff picture. With explosive offensive weapons, skilled quarterbacks, and crucial injuries impacting both rosters, Sunday’s Dolphins vs Chargers matchup promises high drama, momentum swings, and a pivotal moment in both teams’ seasons.
