Game Info: Patriots vs. Dolphins (Week 18)

  • Matchup: Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots

  • Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026

  • Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET

  • US TV channel: FOX

  • Canada TV: CTV / TSN

Patriots vs. Dolphins
Patriots vs. Dolphins

The New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins rivalry has defined the AFC East for decades, and when these teams meet in NFL Week 18, the implications often go beyond bragging rights. With playoff positioning, division order, or spoiler scenarios in play, this matchup regularly draws national attention—especially among fans in the US and Canada.

Why Patriots vs. Dolphins Matters in Week 18

This is one of the NFL’s most consistent late-season division rivalries. The Dolphins frequently enter Week 18 fighting for a playoff spot or seeding, while the Patriots often play the role of spoiler with AFC East pride on the line.

Historically, Miami has also been one of the most difficult road environments for New England, adding another layer of unpredictability. That combination of rivalry, stakes, and history makes this game a regular Week 18 focal point.

How to Watch Patriots vs. Dolphins in the United States

Watch for Free on FOX (Over-the-Air)

Because the game airs on FOX, it’s available free over the air in most US markets.

What you need

  • A digital antenna

  • A TV within range of a local FOX station

This is the simplest and most reliable option, requiring no cable or subscription.

Stream the Game Online (No Cable)

FOX Sports (Local Streaming)

  • Website: https://www.foxsports.com

  • App: FOX Sports App

What you get

  • Live stream of Patriots vs. Dolphins in supported local markets

Limitations

  • Location-based access

  • Some users may see a TV provider login prompt

Live TV Streaming Free Trials

These services carry FOX and often include free trials:

  • YouTube TV: https://tv.youtube.com

  • Hulu + Live TV: https://www.hulu.com/live-tv

  • Fubo: https://www.fubo.tv

Cost

  • $0 during trial (new users)

  • Cancel after the game to avoid charges

NFL+ (Mobile-Only Option)

  • Website: https://www.nfl.com/plus

Cost: around $7 per month
Limitation: live streaming on phones only

NFL+ works best for fans watching on mobile, not on TV.

Read more:

- How to Watch NFL Week 18 Sunday Games for Free: Legal, Cable-Free Options

- NFL Week 18: Top 8 Most Dangerous Potential Wild-Card Teams

- NFL Week 18 Scenarios Explained: Every Game That Decides Playoff Seeding

How to Watch Patriots vs. Dolphins in Canada

Free Over-the-Air TV (Where Available)

  • CTV broadcasts select NFL games nationally

If this matchup is shown on CTV in your region, you can watch free with an antenna.

TSN (Most Common Choice)

  • Website: https://www.tsn.ca

TSN carries FOX NFL games nationwide and is widely available via cable or TSN streaming subscriptions.

DAZN Canada (NFL Game Pass)

  • Website: https://www.dazn.com

What you get

  • Live stream of Patriots vs. Dolphins

  • No regional blackouts

  • Full replays and multi-device support

DAZN is the most reliable option for Canadian fans without cable.

Why This Game Is Often Easy to Watch

Patriots vs. Dolphins is widely accessible because:

  • It airs on FOX (US) and CTV/TSN (Canada)

  • It is not exclusive to cable

  • Broadcast networks ensure free public access

For many fans, watching this game doesn’t require any paid subscription.

Bottom Line

Patriots vs. Dolphins on January 4, 2026 is a classic AFC East showdown with real stakes—and it’s easy to watch. Whether you use an antenna, a free trial, or a low-cost streaming option, fans in the US and Canada have multiple reliable ways to tune in without cable.