The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns will open the 2025 NFL season with a divisional clash in Cleveland. The game is set for Sunday, September 7, at Huntington Bank Field with kickoff at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can watch on FOX or stream through several platforms.
This matchup adds a new chapter to the Battle of Ohio, one of the league’s fiercest rivalries. The Bengals enter with playoff expectations behind Joe Burrow and a talented roster.
The Browns turn to veteran Joe Flacco at quarterback as they wait for younger players to grow into bigger roles. Both teams want an early edge in the AFC North, making this game one of the key highlights of Week 1.
Bengals vs Browns Key Game Info
| Date | Sunday, September 7, 2025 |
| Kickoff Time | 1:00 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Huntington Bank Field, Cleveland, OH |
| TV Channel (US) | FOX |
| Streaming | NFL+ (mobile in US), FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FOX One, DAZN Game Pass International |
What Time Does the Bengals vs Browns Start?
The Bengals vs Browns game kicks off at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. That is 12:00 p.m. Central, 11:00 a.m. Mountain and 10:00 a.m. Pacific.
It will be played at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, giving the Browns the advantage of starting their season at home.
Where to Watch Bengals vs Browns on TV
You can watch Bengals vs Browns game will air on FOX as part of the network’s Sunday afternoon coverage.
Fans in Cincinnati can watch on WXIX-TV (FOX 19). In Cleveland, the game will be broadcast on WJW-TV (FOX 8). Other FOX affiliates across Ohio and surrounding states will also carry the game live.
Bengals vs Browns Live Stream Options
Fans have multiple streaming options. NFL+ will carry the game on mobile and tablet devices in the United States and also includes live audio and replays.
Live TV platforms such as FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV and Sling TV also carry FOX in most regions.
The game is also available on FOX One, FOX’s new streaming service that includes sports, news, and entertainment in one app.
For international viewers, the game can be streamed through DAZN with NFL Game Pass International, which carries every NFL game worldwide outside the United States.
Can You Watch Bengals vs Browns for Free?
Yes. Several streaming platforms that carry FOX provide free trials, including FuboTV and YouTube TV.
FOX One also offers a 7-day free trial, giving fans another way to watch the game without paying upfront.
For those who prefer audio, both team radio networks and the NFL app provide live coverage free of charge.
Radio and Audio Streaming Coverage
The Bengals Radio Network covers the game across Ohio and nearby states, with ESPN 1530 AM as a flagship station in Cincinnati.
The Browns Radio Network airs live coverage throughout the state, with 850 AM WKNR as the main station in Cleveland.
National coverage is available through Westwood One. SiriusXM NFL Radio subscribers can listen nationwide, while NFL+ also provides live audio streaming for every NFL game.
Bengals vs Browns Game Preview and Our Prediction
Cleveland begins the season with Joe Flacco at quarterback. Deshaun Watson remains sidelined, and the Browns must adjust without cornerback Martin Emerson, who is out for the year. Flacco’s experience brings stability, but the offense still faces questions against a strong Bengals defense.
Cincinnati enters with confidence. Joe Burrow leads one of the league’s most dangerous passing attacks with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Trey Hendrickson is back on defense after resolving his contract situation, and the addition of Dalton Risner bolsters protection up front.
The rivalry has always been intense, and both teams will push for control early. The Bengals have won the last three meetings, and their overall roster depth gives them an edge again.
Prediction: Bengals 28, Browns 21. Cincinnati’s offensive firepower and defensive pressure should be enough to secure a Week 1 road win.
Cincinnati Bengals vs Cleveland Browns FAQs
Who are the key players to watch in this game?
Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson lead the Bengals, while Joe Flacco, Nick Chubb and Myles Garrett are central for the Browns.
What is the rivalry history between the Bengals and Browns?
Known as the Battle of Ohio, the Bengals hold a 55–48 all-time series lead and come into Week 1 on a three-game win streak.
Will Westwood One and SiriusXM carry the game?
Yes. Westwood One will provide national radio coverage and SiriusXM NFL Radio will carry the broadcast for subscribers.
Do the Bengals and Browns play again this season?
Yes. They will close the season against each other in Week 18.