Chicago Bears vs. Miami Dolphins: 2025 NFL Preseason Week 1 Recap

On August 10, 2025, the Chicago Bears hosted the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field in Chicago for their first preseason game of the 2025 NFL season. The game, which kicked off at 1:00 PM ET, was a chance for both teams to evaluate their depth and give rookies and reserves valuable playing time. With key starters from both teams either limited or sidelined, the focus was on emerging talent and roster battles. Below is a detailed recap of the game, including live updates, key performances, and what it means for the Bears moving forward.

Game Overview

The Bears and Dolphins entered the game with identical 0-0 records, as this was the preseason opener for both teams. The game was broadcast on NFL Network and FOX32 in Chicago, with streaming options available on Fubo and NFL+. The weather in Chicago was partly sunny with a high of 84°F, a 35% chance of rain, and winds blowing at 10 mph from the south, creating decent conditions for football.

Betting odds had the Bears as slight favorites, with a spread of -3 and a money line of -165, while the Dolphins were listed at +140. The over/under was set at 34.5 points, indicating expectations of a low-scoring affair typical of preseason games.

Live Score Updates and Key Plays

First Quarter

Early Game Stalemate: The game started slowly, with both teams struggling to gain traction. At 13:31 in the first quarter, the score remained 0-0. The Dolphins had the ball at their own 42-yard line on 2nd & 10, with De’Von Achane gaining 5 yards on a rush to the right, tackled by Bears’ J. Owens. Total yards at this point were minimal, with Miami at 5 and Chicago at 2. The Bears’ defense showed early promise, forcing a three-and-out on Miami’s first drive.
Bears’ Defensive Stand: By the end of the first quarter, the Bears’ defense was aggressive, with a notable play where they sent heavy pressure to disrupt Miami’s offense, resulting in good field position.

Second Quarter

Bears Take the Lead: The Bears struck first with a touchdown pass from backup quarterback Case Keenum to Deion Hankins, giving Chicago a lead. This play was highlighted for its precision, with Keenum finding Hankins in stride.
Dolphins Respond: Miami answered with a touchdown of their own, as Alexander Mattison punched in a 1-yard run on 3rd & Goal, followed by a successful extra point from Jason Sanders. This tied the game momentarily.
Bears Regain Momentum: Late in the second quarter, the Bears went for it on 4th & Goal from the Miami 4-yard line. Tyson Bagent connected with Maurice Alexander for a 4-yard touchdown pass, with Alexander making an impressive toe-tap catch in the end zone. The extra point was good, giving the Bears a 10-7 lead.

Third Quarter

Dolphins Pull Ahead: By 7:08 in the third quarter, the Dolphins had taken a 14-10 lead. Miami’s offense found a rhythm, capitalizing on a 9-play, 81-yard drive by the Bears that stalled at the Miami 4-yard line, where Chicago failed to convert on 4th & 1.
Bears’ Defense Shines: Despite the scoreline, the Bears’ defense continued to make plays, with another aggressive blitz forcing Miami into a difficult 3rd-down situation. Rookie running back Kyle Monangai also stood out, delivering a hard-hitting run that energized the crowd.

Fourth Quarter

Specific updates for the fourth quarter were not available in the provided data, but the game remained competitive. The final score and outcome were not explicitly detailed in the sources, suggesting a close contest that likely went down to the wire. Fans can check ESPN or Bleacher Report for the final box score and play-by-play.

Standout Performances

Chicago Bears

Tyson Bagent (QB): The backup quarterback showed poise, completing 1 of 2 passes for 8 yards early and later throwing a crucial 4-yard touchdown to Maurice Alexander. His ability to convert on 4th & Goal was a highlight.
Maurice Alexander (WR): Alexander’s toe-tap touchdown catch was a standout moment, showcasing his potential as a depth receiver.
Kyle Monangai (RB): The rookie running back impressed with physical runs, earning praise for his sharp play and ability to lower the boom.
Austin Booker (DE): The defensive end was a bright spot, shining in his preseason debut and earning recognition for his disruptive presence.
Luther Burden III (WR): The rookie receiver made an impact with a key catch on 3rd & long, connecting with Bagent for a significant gain.

Miami Dolphins

De’Von Achane (RB): Achane had a modest start with 1 carry for 5 yards, but his speed was a constant threat.
Alexander Mattison (RB): Mattison’s 1-yard touchdown run was a critical moment for Miami, showing his value as a depth running back.
Rookies to Watch: Miami’s first-round pick Kenneth Grant (DT) and second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea (OG) were players to watch, though specific contributions were not detailed in the updates.

Injury Report

Both teams were dealing with significant injuries, which impacted playing time for key players:

Chicago Bears: Cornerback Kyler Gordon (hamstring), tight end Jordan Murray (groin, IR), center Doug Kramer Jr., running back Roschon Johnson (foot), and offensive tackle Kiran Amegadjie were listed as questionable or out. Notably, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams did not play, a strategic choice to protect the Bears’ future star.
Miami Dolphins: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill (oblique), tight end Darren Waller (PUP), guard Austin Jackson (lower body), fullback Alec Ingold (concussion protocol), and cornerbacks Kader Kohou and Artie Burns (both out for the season) were unavailable.

Key Takeaways

Bears’ Defensive Depth: The Bears’ defense, led by players like Austin Booker, showed aggression and promise, setting a strong tone for the preseason. Their ability to generate pressure and secure good field position was a positive sign.
Rookie Impact: Rookies like Kyle Monangai and Luther Burden III made strong cases for roster spots, while Maurice Alexander’s touchdown catch highlighted the depth in Chicago’s receiving corps.
Quarterback Play: With Caleb Williams sitting out, Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum stepped up, with Keenum’s touchdown pass to Hankins and Bagent’s clutch 4th-down throw showing the Bears’ backup quarterback depth.
Dolphins’ Resilience: Despite missing key starters like Tyreek Hill and Darren Waller, Miami’s offense, led by Mattison and Achane, kept the game competitive. Their 14-10 lead in the third quarter showed their depth players could step up.
Preseason Context: Both teams used this game to evaluate younger players and those fighting for roster spots. The Bears’ decision to rest Williams and the Dolphins’ limited use of starters reflect a cautious approach typical of preseason openers.

Looking Ahead

For the Bears, this game was a chance to build momentum under head coach Ben Johnson, who emphasized competition and intensity during training camp. The team’s next preseason game is against the Buffalo Bills on August 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET, where they’ll look to refine their game plan and give more players opportunities to shine.

The Dolphins, meanwhile, head to Detroit for joint practices with the Lions before their next preseason game on August 16, 2025. With pressure on coach Mike McDaniel and GM Chris Grier after a losing 2024 season, Miami will need to see continued progress from their depth players.

How to Follow the Bears’ Season

Fans can catch Bears games on ESPN, NFL Network, or local channels like FOX32 in Chicago. Streaming options include Fubo, NFL+, and Paramount+. For tickets, StubHub offered seats for the Dolphins game starting at $32, and similar deals may be available for upcoming games.