Lions vs Dolphins: Third preseason game at Ford Field after productive joint practices
After two days of joint practices with the Miami Dolphins this week, the Detroit Lions will finally face their preseason-compatible opponents in a game setting. The Lions and Dolphins square off in Detroit for their third preseason game of 2025, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at Ford Field. The Lions have shown flashes in practice against the Dolphins, following a smoother offensive and defensive showing during those joint sessions on Wednesday and Thursday.
The Lions opened the preseason with a 34-7 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Their second game against the Atlanta Falcons was halted in the fourth quarter after a scary head injury to safety Morice Norris left the field in an ambulance, though Detroit held a 17-10 lead at the time. Now, the focus shifts to the matchup with Miami, as both sides look to build momentum before the regular season.
What you need to know about the Lions’ upcoming game
Are the Lions playing today?
Yes. The Lions will host the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, Aug. 16, in a 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Ford Field.
How to watch Lions vs. Dolphins preseason game
Television: WJBK-TV (Fox 2) in Detroit
Streaming: Fubo
Radio: WXYT-FM (97.1)
Is Jared Goff playing?
Detroit’s quarterback situation remains fluid ahead of the game. No official starter has been announced for the Dolphins matchup. It is expected that the Lions will give significant playing time to their quarterback group, including Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker, in shaping the backup role behind Goff. Goff himself has not been confirmed to start in this game, as the team continues to evaluate the best approach for game reps.
What to watch beyond the starting QB
– Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen continue to compete for the primary backup job. Hooker has shown flashes but has needed consistency, while Allen delivered a productive performance in the Falcons game, going 7-for-8 for 120 yards and two touchdowns.
– The Lions’ offense and defense looked strong against the Dolphins during this week’s joint practices, suggesting Detroit has been able to carry practice-level success into a game-like environment.
– Goff’s readiness and involvement, as well as how the team distributes snaps among the quarterback room, will be a point of emphasis for observers and fans seeking clarity on the depth chart.
Around the league, headlines have included a notable moment for Lions quarterback Jared Goff, who received an unexpected shoutout from pop megastar Taylor Swift during the week, adding a light, high-profile moment to the team’s preseason storylines.
Summary
Detroit heads into this Saturday’s matchup hopeful that the week of productive practices against Miami translates into a solid performance on game day. With the quarterback carousel still sorting itself out and the team looking to refine its depth ahead of the regular season, this game will serve as another important step in the Lions’ preseason progression.
Additional context and notes
– The Lions’ preseason record so far includes a heavyweight loss and a late-terminated game, providing motivation to close preseason strong.
– This game offers a concrete opportunity for backups and players on the bubble to showcase their abilities in a real game-like setting against a divisional rival’s preparation.
– Keep an eye on the injury report and any roster moves that could influence the depth chart as the team moves closer to final cuts.
If you’d like, I can add a short expert-forward analysis on how this game might influence Detroit’s final 53-man roster decisions or craft a quick player-by-player watch list for the broadcast.