The Detroit Lions (3-1) visit the Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) this afternoon for a Week 5 game at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati.
Detroit arrives riding a three-game winning streak, rebounding after a Week 1 loss to the Green Bay Packers. The Bengals, meanwhile, are reeling without Joe Burrow, struggling to score in back-to-back blowouts, averaging just 6.5 points in the two losses.
The Lions’ offense has been electric since that Week 1 setback. After being held in check by Green Bay, Detroit has averaged 41.3 points per game during its winning streak, boosting its season average to a league-best 34.3.
The Lions rank sixth in total offense (365.0 yards per game) with balance both through the air and on the ground. Jared Goff has completed 90 of 122 passes for 929 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions. Amon-Ra St. Brown leads all receivers with six touchdowns and 307 yards through four games, averaging 11.4 yards per catch.
Things to Watch
Lions’ offensive line without Taylor Decker
Left tackle Taylor Decker is listed as doubtful with a lingering shoulder injury. If he can’t go, Detroit may shift Penei Sewell to left tackle or start a less experienced option — an opportunity for Cincinnati’s pass rush to capitalize.
Bengals’ defense missing Shemar Stewart
Rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart will miss the game with an ankle injury, further weakening a defensive front that has already lost its spark with Burrow sidelined.
Noah Fant returns to offense
Tight end Noah Fant cleared concussion protocol and will suit up, giving backup quarterback Jake Browning an additional target in the passing game.
Detroit’s rushing attack vs. Bengals’ light boxes
Cincinnati’s defense has struggled against heavier run looks, and Detroit could lean on its backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to exploit those gaps.
Browning under pressure and chemistry with receivers
Jake Browning has had trouble finding rhythm with Ja’Marr Chase, especially on deep routes. Improved timing and decision-making will be critical if the Bengals hope to keep pace with Detroit’s high-powered offense.
Lions-Bengals Predictions
Detroit’s form and roster health give them a clear edge. Without Burrow or Stewart, Cincinnati’s offense and pass rush are compromised. If the Lions can keep the chains moving on the ground and protect Goff (even without Decker), they should control the pace. Expect Detroit to win decisively.
Projected Final Score: Lions 36, Bengals 13
Injury Report
Cincinnati Bengals
TE Noah Fant — Available (cleared concussion protocol)
WR Charlie Jones — Out (Achilles)
DE Shemar Stewart — Out (Ankle)
Detroit Lions
RB Sione Vaki — Out (Groin)
LB Zach Cunningham — Out (Hamstring)
CB Khalil Dorsey — Out (Concussion / Wrist)
LT Taylor Decker — Doubtful (Shoulder)
DE Al-Quadin Muhammad — Questionable (Knee)
How to Watch Lions vs. Bengals
Kickoff for this afternoon’s game between the Lions and Bengals is set for 4:25 PM Eastern at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati.
The game airs live on FOX across most of the Midwest and Great Plains down into Atlanta and the Gulf Coast.
So fans in those regions can tune in for free on their local FOX affiliate via antenna. FOX is also available at no additional cost through most cable, satellite, and live streaming packages.
Today’s game also streams live on the FOX Sports app and website.
If you’re a cordcutter without a livestreaming subscription, you can watch your regional broadcast for free by signing up for a trial with FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or DirecTV Stream.
YouTube TV also provides a 20-minute free preview without requiring registration.
Fans outside the regional broadcast areas can watch the game on YouTube’s NFL Sunday Ticket, starting at $34.50 per month.
Detroit Lions vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Time: 4:25 PM Eastern
Venue: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
TV: FOX
Streaming: FOX Sports app and website
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