Bengals Survive Heat During Dolphins Road Win in Miami

The Cincinnati Bengals overcame record heat conditions during their road victory over the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, with the extreme temperature affecting players and prompting additional hydration measures throughout the game.

According to Bengals.com’s Geoff Hobson, the game started at 90 degrees, making it the hottest road game in Bengals history. The broadcast also noted the Bengals sideline was about 10 degrees hotter than Miami’s side.

Players received IV hydration during the contest, and broadcasters reported that some athletes changed undershirts because of the conditions. The heat became a major factor as Cincinnati finished the game.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said the conditions tested his team despite their preparation. Taylor told reporters the heat was unlike anything the team could have prepared for during October.

"Nothing really at this point in October gets you ready for this heat. I mean, somebody told me it started as the hottest game here in October history, which I can attest to. I’ve coached here for four years, and pregame, I was worn out. And so our players fought through that," said Zac Taylor, head coach.

Taylor said he had informed players before the game that the matchup was the hottest October game in Hard Rock Stadium history. He said the information helped players understand the challenge came from the environment rather than their conditioning.

The Bengals entered their bye week after the game, with Taylor’s team also managing injuries and several close contests early in the season. Cincinnati is scheduled to face the Baltimore Ravens in 14 days for its next AFC North matchup.