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

Big Changes to Buffalo's Schedule

The NFL has officially flexed the Buffalo Bills' Week 14 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, moving kickoff from 4:25 p.m. ET to 1:00 p.m. ET. This adjustment marks the first flex scheduling change for the Bills in the 2025 season and has significant implications for Buffalo's late-season rhythm.

Why the Flex?

The league's decision prioritizes the Chicago Bears-Green Packers NFC North showdown to the later 4:25 p.m. slot, highlighting its playoff implications. With Chicago (7-3) and Green Bay (6-3-1) battling for division supremacy, the NFL deemed this matchup more compelling for prime-time exposure. Meanwhile, despite the Bills' strong 7-3 record, their game against the struggling Bengals (1-7 since Joe Burrow's injury) was moved earlier.

"The NFL makes these decisions to maximize viewer interest and competitive stakes," explains analyst Michael Chen. "While Bills fans might miss a later kickoff, this actually benefits Buffalo's rhythm given their dominance in 1 p.m. games."

Bills' 1 p.m. Dominance Continues

This flex reinforces Buffalo's unusual 2025 pattern. The Bills now boast six 1 p.m. games this season—the highest in the NFL—following their Week 14 adjustment. They've thrived in these slots, posting a stellar 4-1 record in early afternoon games. The Bengals matchup kicks off a stretch of three consecutive 1 p.m. starts for Buffalo, followed by road games against New England and Cleveland.

"We've embraced the 1 p.m. schedule all year," said Bills head coach Sean McDermott in a press conference. "It allows our team to maintain a consistent routine, and the results speak for themselves."

Burrow's Return Adds Intrigue

Despite Cincinnati's struggles, flex timing adds drama. Quarterback Joe Burrow could return from injured reserve by Week 14, potentially reigniting the rivalry. The league's decision to keep the game on FOX ensures regional coverage, giving fans in Buffalo and Cincinnati maximum access to the matchup.

Fan Impact

While the league prioritizes competitive matchups, the change inconveniences some fans. Ticket holders with 4:25 p.m. plans may need to adjust travel and tailgate schedules. "We understand the frustration," added Chen. "But for Bills fans, this means an earlier kickoff and potentially less traffic leaving Highmark Stadium."

What's Next?

Buffalo's Week 18 matchup against the Jets remains TBD, with potential flex possibilities still open. For now, the Bills focus on capitalizing on their 1 p.m. momentum as they push toward the playoffs. The Bengals game, now set for December 12 at 1:00 p.m., looms as a critical test of Buffalo's resilience against a divisional rival fighting for relevance.