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: 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
RandBall: Two things can be true about Twins signing Josh Bell
Only in the vacuum of the Twins’ reality can this be considered a significant move.
December 16, 2025
RandBall: Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy was an infant the last time Minnesota sports teams did this
On Sunday, the Vikings, Wild and Timberwolves won on the same date for the first time in nearly 22 years.
December 15, 2025
RandBall: A big week for Vikings QBs of the past, present ... and future?
Kirk Cousins, J.J. McCarthy and Joe Burrow? Let’s talk about it.
December 12, 2025
RandBall: Philip Rivers’ return to the NFL is the story we need right now
He hasn’t played in the NFL in five years. He’s a grandfather. Philip Rivers is a gift to the sports timeline.
December 11, 2025
RandBall: Notre Dame’s privilege is showing in College Football Playoff reaction
After being left out of the field of 12, the Irish reacted like spoiled children.
December 10, 2025
RandBall: Rudy Gobert, Bones Hyland and cracks in the Timberwolves
The Wolves have been getting away with a lot of things in victories. Their more worrisome traits were on display during a loss to the Suns on Monday.
December 9, 2025
RandBall: Hoping the Vikings would tank for a draft pick? I have some bad news.
Go ahead and ask a professional athlete to be OK with losing.
December 8, 2025
RandBall: The Vikings are finally catching a break. They had better use it.
Quarterback J.J. McCarthy has a chance to revamp his season against three bad defenses. Can he take advantage?
December 5, 2025
RandBall: So now we know Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy was overwhelmed and overthinking
Improvement is an investment in the future as well as a recognition of past shortcomings.
December 4, 2025
