Bills vs. Bengals Flexed to 1 p.m. Kickoff in Week 14

Buffalo Bills vs. Bengals Game Flexed to 1 p.m. in Week 14

The NFL has officially flexed the Buffalo Bills' Week 14 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, moving the kickoff time from 4:25 p.m. ET to 1:00 p.m. ET. The game, set to be broadcast on FOX, will now be part of the network's early afternoon slate as the league adjusts its schedule to feature more compelling matchups.

This change marks a significant shift for the Bills, who have become accustomed to early kickoffs. With this flex, Buffalo will play its sixth 1 p.m. game of the 2025 season—a trend that has been favorable, with the team currently boasting a 4-1 record in such contests. The Bills' schedule is now packed with three consecutive 1 p.m. games, starting with the Bengals, followed by road matchups against the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns.

The NFL's decision to flex this game comes as part of broader Week 14 adjustments. While the Bills-Bengals matchup was moved to an earlier slot, the Chicago Bears' road game against the Green Bay Packers was flexed to a later 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. This swap highlights the league's focus on maximizing television ratings and showcasing the most competitive games.

For the Bengals, the timing change is particularly noteworthy. Despite a struggling season—posting a 1-7 record since star quarterback Joe Burrow was sidelined with a toe injury—there's optimism Burrow could return for this pivotal divisional clash. However, the NFL's decision to prioritize the Bears-Packers game underscores the NFC North rivalry's significance, with both teams vying for first place in the division.

From a fan perspective, the flex presents both opportunities and challenges. While an earlier kickoff allows for more post-game activities, it may disrupt plans for those who had already adjusted their schedules based on the original 4:25 p.m. start. The Bills, known for their passionate fanbase, will undoubtedly adapt, but the change serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of NFL scheduling.

Looking ahead, the Bills' three-game stretch of 1 p.m. kickoffs could play a crucial role in their playoff positioning. The team has thrived in early games, leveraging its strong defensive presence and efficient offense. With matchups against division rivals New England and Cleveland on the horizon, maintaining the momentum from this Bengals game is essential.

As the season progresses, the NFL will continue to flex games based on team performance and marketability. While Week 18's game against the New York Jets remains undetermined, the Bills have proven their adaptability to varying kickoff times. For now, all eyes turn to Highmark Stadium on December 15th, where the Bills aim to extend their impressive 1 p.m. game record against a Bengals team fighting for pride and a potential Burrow resurgence.

Whether you're a die-hard Bills fan or an NFL enthusiast, this flexed game promises to deliver high-stakes action. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds, and be sure to mark your calendars for the 1 p.m. kickoff!