You’d think a couple of teams that play each other once every four years wouldn't have much of a "beef." But when it comes to the Chicago Bears vs Miami Dolphins, the vibes are just different. It’s not a rivalry born of geographic proximity or divisional hatred. Honestly, it’s about a single night in 1985 that changed NFL history forever. It’s also about two franchises that, for better or worse, are always trying to find their way back to a golden era that feels like it happened a lifetime ago.
If you’re a Bears fan, you probably don't want to hear the name Dan Marino. If you’re a Dolphins fan, you probably hold onto the "72" and "85" numbers like they’re a secret code.
The Night the Perfection Died
December 2, 1985. The Orange Bowl.
The Bears walked in with a 12-0 record. They weren't just winning games; they were destroying people. Their "46 Defense" was a terrifying machine that made grown men look like toddlers. They had Buddy Ryan’s scheme, Mike Ditka’s attitude, and a swagger that suggested they’d never lose again.
Then they met Dan Marino.
Marino didn't care about the 46 Defense. He didn't care about the pressure. He basically spent the first half throwing darts before the Bears' pass rush could even get off the line. By the time the dust settled at halftime, Miami was up 31-10. It was a beatdown. The final score of 38-24 remains the only blemish on what would have been the most perfect season in NFL history. Every year, when the last undefeated team falls, the 1972 Dolphins pop champagne. They owe a lot of that tradition to that 1985 victory over Chicago.
Why the All-Time Record Matters
Looking at the numbers, Miami has historically had Chicago's number. It's weird. In their 14 regular-season meetings, the Dolphins have won 10. That’s a lopsided stat for two teams that don't see each other often.
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The last time they met in the regular season was November 2022, and it was a shootout. Justin Fields was breaking records for rushing yards by a quarterback, but the Dolphins still walked away with a 35-32 win. It sort of highlighted the eternal struggle of the Bears: finding a way to outscore a high-octane Miami offense.
Recent Clashes and 2025's Strange Ending
Fast forward to August 10, 2025. It was just a preseason opener at Soldier Field, but it felt oddly poetic. Both teams were resting their big stars—Caleb Williams stayed on the sidelines for Chicago, and Tyreek Hill wasn't out there burning cornerbacks for Miami.
What we got instead was a 24-24 tie.
Yeah, a tie. In 2025.
It was the first time the Bears had tied a preseason game in 52 years. The kicker? The last time they did it back in 1973, it was also against the Dolphins. History has a funny way of repeating itself. The game saw some wild moments, like Austin Booker—the second-year defensive end for the Bears—registering three sacks and a strip-sack. On the Miami side, Ollie Gordon II and Jaylen Wright looked like they were ready to carry the load for the Fins' backfield.
Key Personnel and Modern Matchups
When you look at Bears vs Miami Dolphins today, you're looking at two teams built on opposite philosophies.
- The Bears' Identity: Chicago is finally—finally—trying to join the modern NFL passing era with Caleb Williams. But their soul still lies in that "Monsters of the Midway" defense. Guys like Montez Sweat and Jaylon Johnson represent that old-school toughness.
- The Dolphins' Speed: Under Mike McDaniel, Miami is a track team with pads on. It’s all about De'Von Achane’s burst and the quick-strike ability of Tua Tagovailoa.
What Most People Get Wrong About This Matchup
People tend to think the 1985 game is just a fun trivia fact. It's not. It’s the foundation of the relationship between these two fanbases. Miami fans view themselves as the "Guardians of the Perfect Season." Chicago fans view that night as the one that got away.
There's also this misconception that the Dolphins struggle in the cold. While that might be true in January, they’ve actually played quite well in Chicago over the years. They aren't as "soft" as the Windy City media likes to claim when the Florida boys come north.
What to Watch for Next Time
The next time these two meet in the regular season, the stakes will be high. We’ll likely see Caleb Williams in his prime going up against whatever evolved version of the "South Beach Track Club" McDaniel has cooked up.
If you're betting on this game or just watching for fun, keep an eye on:
- The Pass Rush vs. Quick Release: Miami’s offense relies on the ball getting out in under 2.5 seconds. If Chicago’s front four can’t disrupt that rhythm, it’s a long day for the secondary.
- Turnover Margin: In their 2006 meeting, the Dolphins were 1-6 and the Bears were 7-0. Miami won because they forced six turnovers. It’s the great equalizer in this specific series.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Analysts
If you're looking to dive deeper into the Bears vs Miami Dolphins lore or prepare for their next meeting, here's how to actually use this info:
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- Study the 1985 Tape: If you want to understand how to beat a dominant pressure defense, watch what Marino did. He used the "hot read" better than anyone in history. It's a blueprint still used today.
- Track the Trenches: Pay attention to the health of the offensive lines. In recent matchups, the winner has almost always been the team that didn't allow their QB to get hit more than five times.
- Weather Matters, But Not How You Think: Don't just look at the temperature. Look at the wind at Soldier Field. High winds hurt Miami's timing-based passing game way more than "the cold" ever will.
The Bears and Dolphins might not be "rivals" in the traditional sense, but they are linked by history, perfection, and a very specific kind of football heartbreak. Whether it's a 1980s blowout or a 2020s shootout, it’s never boring.