On today's show, Stone talks Xavier basketball with Shelby Dermer who covers the Muskies for The Enquirer, as they discuss Year 1 for Richard Pitino and look ahead to the New Year's Eve matchup with UConn. Plus, is the Bengals' 2023 draft class actually really good? Also, we preview Sunday's Bengals vs. Cardinals tilt and roll through our Best Bets Of The Weekend.

The Cincinnati Bengals (5-10) host the Arizona Cardinals (3-12) this Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati for a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff on FOX. Both teams are eliminated from playoff contention in disappointing 2025 seasons, turning this late-season matchup into a battle for pride, momentum heading into the offseason, and potentially better draft positioning.

The Bengals enter on a high note after exploding for 45 points in a dominant Week 16 win over the Miami Dolphins. Joe Burrow looked sharp in his return from injury, throwing for over 300 yards with multiple touchdowns, while Ja'Marr Chase and the offense clicked efficiently. Chase Brown added a strong rushing performance, and the unit showed flashes of the explosiveness that has defined Cincinnati in recent years. However, the defense remains a major concern, ranking near the bottom of the league in points allowed (30.5 per game) and struggling against the pass and tight ends.

Arizona, meanwhile, is mired in a seven-game losing streak, most recently falling 26-19 to the Atlanta Falcons. With Kyler Murray sidelined for the season due to injury, Jacoby Brissett has been under center, leading an inconsistent offense that relies heavily on tight end Trey McBride (over 1,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns). The Cardinals' run game has been decimated by injuries to backs like James Conner and Trey Benson, leaving Michael Carter as the primary option. Defensively, Arizona has been porous, allowing 30+ points in several recent games, though they can keep things close against vulnerable units. Bengals are favored by about 7 points, with a high over/under around 53.5, reflecting expectations of a potential shootout given both teams' defensive woes and offensive talent. Burrow's presence gives Cincinnati a clear edge at quarterback, and home-field advantage in cold December weather could trouble the dome-accustomed Cardinals.

Key storylines include Burrow continuing to build momentum post-injury, McBride's dominance against a Bengals defense weak vs. tight ends, and whether Arizona can snap their skid against a team with more natural talent. Experts largely side with Cincinnati, but the Cardinals' ability to move the ball through the air could keep it competitive.

In a "meaningless" game for standings, look for fireworks and individual performances to shine. Bengals are poised to win, likely covering in a high-scoring affair.

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Holy (Trap).

Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock).

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On today's show, we react to Cincinnati's 45-21 win over the Miami Dolphins and Stone explains why although this mean technically doesn't mean anything it was still important for Cincinnati as the "Big 3" finally looked the part this season. Also, we discuss Round 1 of the College Football Playoffs in what was not a good showing at all for the group of 5 schools + Aaron Rodgers turns back the clocks as Pittsburgh is on the precipice of a divisional title.

In a thrilling matchup, the Cincinnati Bengals delivered an explosive performance, defeating the Miami Dolphins 45-21. The Bengals showcased their offensive firepower, with standout plays and key contributions from both Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. Despite a strong first-half effort from Miami, the Dolphins struggled to keep pace as the Bengals' offense took control after halftime.

The game saw Quinn Ewers stepping in for a benched Tua Tagovailoa, and though Ewers showed flashes of potential, the Dolphins’ offense couldn’t find enough rhythm to match the Bengals’ high-powered attack. Joe Burrow was in top form, leading the Bengals with precision throws and timely decisions. Meanwhile, Ja'Marr Chase was dominant, consistently making big catches and proving why he’s one of the league’s top receivers.

On the defensive side, the Bengals did a great job of applying pressure and forcing mistakes, including key sacks and turnovers. Miami’s struggles to protect the quarterback, coupled with their inability to adjust to Cincinnati’s defensive schemes, kept the game out of reach. The Dolphins’ inability to capitalize on early opportunities ultimately led to their downfall.

This 45-21 win marks another strong statement for the Bengals as they continue to build momentum for the season. Watch the full game highlights and analysis to relive the key moments that led to this impressive victory!

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Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ Track Name Exercise (Rock).

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