Michael Rand
Columnist / Reporter
RandBallMichael Rand is a North Dakota native, a graduate of the University of Minnesota and an enthusiastic consumer of tacos. He lives in Eagan with his wife, three children and one energetic pug.
Latest from Michael Rand
RandBall: How did Anthony Edwards reach 10,000 points so quickly?
Only LeBron James and Kevin Durant were younger when they reached the milestone that Edwards hit Thursday.
January 9, 2026
RandBall: This is the most troubling part of the college transfer portal era
Players getting paid isn’t the problem.
January 8, 2026
RandBall: Five Vikings QB options and one new Brian Flores opportunity
It’s only a matter of time before we find out the answers to the Vikings’ two biggest questions.
January 7, 2026
RandBall: FCS title game is a reminder of why we watch sports
Even when you don’t have a rooting interest, there isn’t much better than unscripted drama.
January 6, 2026
RandBall: J.J. McCarthy, Brian Flores talk dominates Vikings broadcast
Sunday’s 16-3 Vikings win felt like a preseason game at times, not the regular-season finale.
January 5, 2026
RandBall: Wild’s success is no secret. Just follow the prime-age talent
The Wild have passed all of their Minnesota men’s pro sports peers and most of their NHL peers when it comes to high-end performers.
December 30, 2025
RandBall: What exactly have we learned about the Vikings in this odd season?
The Vikings have salvaged their record with four straight victories. Beyond that, 2025 has been a lost year.
December 29, 2025
RandBall: TV uncertainty looms over Timberwolves and Wild
The Twins went through a regional sports transition already. The Wolves and Wild could be next.
December 23, 2025
RandBall: J.J. McCarthy isn’t good enough to be injured this often
Like it or not, there is a sliding scale of tolerance for injuries and off-field issues related to talent and production.
December 22, 2025
RandBall: On Sam Darnold, the Seahawks, the Vikings and NFL margins
Seattle won a wildly entertaining and very meaningful game Thursday over the Rams. It was part of a lesson on NFL margins.
December 19, 2025
RandBall: At long last, a reunion between Timberwolves and Kevin Garnett
A relationship that had been strained for years is getting a fresh start.
December 18, 2025
RandBall: The most encouraging stat from J.J. McCarthy’s past two games
There are plenty of ways to measure the Vikings quarterback’s recent progress, but one stands out.
December 17, 2025
