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: Is this the end for Aaron Rodgers ... or just the beginning?
The Steelers’ season ended Monday with a playoff loss to the Texans. What comes next for Aaron Rodgers, and whether it might involve the Vikings, is anyone’s guess.
January 13, 2026
RandBall: Justin Herbert fizzles while Abbey Murphy sizzles
An NFL playoff weekend full of takeaways and an unbelievable goal set up by the Gophers’ Abbey Murphy highlight today’s 10 things to know.
January 12, 2026
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
