Access Vikings

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Vikings reporters Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer are bringing all you football enthusiasts another way to stay connected to the purple. Consider this podcast to be similar to any Vikings season: full of ups and downs, but never boring.

Star Tribune


    • Dec 4, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 37m AVG DURATION
    • 610 EPISODES

    4.2 from 221 ratings Listeners of Access Vikings that love the show mention: goessling, favre, best vikings podcast, please hire, skol, ben, volume, andrew, pass, fix, fellas, update, line, currently, audio, team, believe, one of the best, guys, keep up the good work.


    Ivy Insights

    The Access Vikings podcast is a must-listen for any Minnesota Vikings fan. Hosted by Andrew Krammer, Ben Goessling, and Mike Rand, this podcast provides in-depth analysis and insights into the team's performance. The trio of hosts bring years of experience covering the Vikings, allowing them to share entertaining stories from past seasons. One of the best aspects of this podcast is that the hosts remain neutral and objective, avoiding the overly emotional reactions that some fans may have. They provide realistic and accurate opinions, keeping listeners well-informed.

    However, one potential drawback of The Access Vikings podcast is its tendency to have a somewhat contrarian view towards the team's success. While it's important to stay realistic and not get too carried away with optimism, some listeners may find it tiresome when every week there seems to be a "yeah they are winning but..." narrative. This constant skepticism about the team's success can become repetitive and may deter some listeners from continuing to tune in.

    Overall, The Access Vikings podcast is an incredibly insightful and interesting source for Vikings fans. The hosts provide valuable analysis and opinions on various aspects of the team's performance. Despite its occasional contrarian angle, it remains one of the best podcasts available for Minnesota Vikings coverage. Whether you're looking for game recaps or discussions on offseason moves, this podcast has you covered with engaging content worth your time.



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    Latest episodes from Access Vikings

    Vikings simplify approach with J.J. McCarthy as Adam Thielen taps out

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 28:59


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's Vikings-Commanders game. First they discuss receiver Adam Thielen asking for his release and joining Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh. Then they get into what the coaching staff is doing to get more out of J.J. McCarthy for now.

    Vikings' offensive struggles continue in shutout loss at Seattle

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 24:31


    Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker talk through the Vikings' 26-0 loss against the Seahawks at Lumen Field. They unpack Max Brosmer's first start, Justin Jefferson's low production -- and decision not to talk postgame -- and where the Vikings defense held up.

    Vikings mailbag: J.J. McCarthy, Max Brosmer and looking ahead to 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2025 36:44


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' quarterback situation and open the mailbag to answer your questions that include: Should J.J. McCarthy keep playing this year? How can Max Brosmer's play on Sunday affect the rest of the season? What approach should the team take in the 2026 offseason?

    Will Max Brosmer make his first Vikings start against Sam Darnold's Seahawks?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 23:29


    Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer preview Sunday's game in Seattle, where the reeling Vikings may be starting undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer for the first time. Oh yeah, old friend Sam Darnold will be on the other sideline. What to expect from Darnold? Brosmer? Where does this leave J.J. McCarthy's development? Who will be available along the offensive line?

    Vikings look listless by end of 23-6 drubbing in Green Bay

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2025 20:58


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker come to you from the mezzanine level of Lambeau Field, where you will hear the trash getting taken out during this episode. On the field, coach Kevin O'Connell, quarterback J.J. McCarthy and an otherwise veteran team seem to have run out of answers for 2025. The defense has only been able to do so much under these conditions, while special teams remains erratic.

    Vikings mailbag: Center Ryan Kelly's return, J.J. McCarthy's development, and Justin Jefferson's patience

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 49:24


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the final ins and outs before Sunday's game at Lambeau Field. They also open the mailbag and answer your Vikings-related questions about quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development, receiver Justin Jefferson's patience, the offensive line, and more. This week's flashback Friday includes a look back at the start of the 2020 season.

    J.J. McCarthy needs time, but the Vikings don't have much left in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 25:44


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview the Vikings' annual trip to Lambeau Field on Sunday. They discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development with seven games left on the schedule, how the kick coverage mishap is emblematic of a larger issue, the lack of takeaways by a talented defense, and what kind of team they're facing in the Packers.

    J.J. McCarthy's growing pains continue in Vikings loss to Bears

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 22:50


    Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 19-17 loss to the Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium, where fans became restless with quarterback J.J. McCarthy's growing pains. What did coach Kevin O'Connell say afterward? They also discuss another strong defensive showing, safety Harrison Smith's 200th regular season game, and the highs and lows of special teams.

    Vikings mailbag: Ryan Kelly's return, Dallas Turner's costly lesson and more

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2025 33:30


    Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your questions about how players choose their helmets, center Ryan Kelly's return, edge rusher Dallas Turner's costly lesson about sacking quarterbacks, the false start problem, a rookie we haven't heard from in a while, and more.

    Vikings, J.J. McCarthy seek cohesion at home against surging Bears

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 25:50


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's game between the Vikings (4-5) and Bears (6-3), who have won six of their last seven games. Will the offense find cohesion with J.J. McCarthy at U.S. Bank Stadium? How do they match up against the Bears defense? When will center Ryan Kelly return? The Vikings defense appears to have found a groove after a rough five-day stretch in October. Are they going to get the upper hand again on Caleb Williams?

    Penalties, turnovers too much for Vikings offense to overcome vs. Ravens

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 24:25


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 27-19 loss to the Ravens on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium, where an inconsistent offense was often penalized and turnover prone. What issues continued for quarterback J.J. McCarthy? How did an impressive defensive performance eventually fall apart? What did players and coach Kevin O'Connell have to say about some of the key moments?

    J.J. McCarthy's alter ego and a Vikings mailbag on the trade deadline, Asante Samuel Jr., and more

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 30:35


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's alter ego and the final injury statuses ahead of Vikings-Ravens on Sunday. They then open the mailbag and answer your questions about the red zone success, free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., the trade deadline, arm wrestling contests, and more.

    Lamar Jackson, J.J. McCarthy, and the Vikings' defensive staying power

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 33:31


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's Vikings-Ravens game through the lens of defending quarterback Lamar Jackson and quarterback J.J. McCarthy's ongoing development. They discuss the Vikings' struggles against mobile quarterbacks, outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel's return, and more.

    Vikings, J.J. McCarthy deliver much-needed win over Lions at Ford Field

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 23:07


    Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer recap the Vikings' 27-24 win over the Lions from Ford Field, where quarterback J.J. McCarthy navigated another road win in the NFC North, the defense got back to its winning ways, kick returner Myles Price made a difference, and more.

    Andrew Van Ginkel to return in Detroit? Vikings mailbag on Hockenson, QBs, and more

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 39:55


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss who's in, who's out, and what's still not known ahead of Sunday in Detroit. They then open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about the quarterbacks, tight end T.J. Hockenson, safety Harrison Smith, and more.

    Carson Wentz defends decision to play as J.J. McCarthy takes Vikings' reins

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 26:37


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback Carson Wentz playing through a torn labrum in his left shoulder, quarterback J.J. McCarthy returning to the starting lineup, and they break the news that Sunday is a tough, tough assignment in Detroit.

    Dud in Los Angeles leaves reeling Vikings with lingering questions on offense and defense

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 20:43


    Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 37-10 loss to the Chargers at SoFi Stadium on Thursday Night Football, including Carson Wentz struggling as he played through pain and what's ahead for the Vikings at quarterback. They also discuss who returned to action, who left the game early and the Chargers tearing up the Vikings defense.

    J.J. McCarthy's return to wait at least another week as Vikings to start Carson Wentz in L.A.

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 32:56


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Thursday night's game against the Chargers, leading with the decision to start Carson Wentz as J.J. McCarthy's recovery continues. They also discuss the potential return of a team captain, Aaron Jones, and how the Vikings offense and defense match up against the 4-3 Chargers. Did the Vikings just struggle against a big, mobile passer with a strong arm? Oh...

    Carson Wentz's turnovers, Eagles' big plays sink Vikings' chances of upsetting Super Bowl champs

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 25:31


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 28-22 loss to the Eagles from U.S. Bank Stadium, where the defense let Jalen Hurts run around and find open receivers downfield. What to make of quarterback Carson Wentz's roller coaster performance? What about the uncharacteristic explosive passes allowed? How did a rookie get picked to lay in front of the Eagles' Tush Push attempt?

    Carson Wentz to start again; Vikings mailbag on J.J. McCarthy and returning players

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 27:57


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback Carson Wentz's fourth straight start on Sunday against his former team. They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about quarterback J.J. McCarthy's practice time, which returning players will make the biggest impacts, and advice on traveling to Minnesota for a game.

    Vikings' J.J. McCarthy returns to practice; will Carson Wentz face his former team?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 29:23


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's return to practice, his ongoing recovery from a high ankle sprain, his development and what it all means for Sunday's game against the Eagles. Will Carson Wentz face his former team? They also discuss two key defenders returning to practice this week and another, Dallas Turner, quietly playing well.

    Vikings mailbag: Help on the way? Measuring success? Must-watch games?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 69:31


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss which players are expected to return after the bye week. Then they open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about measuring success this season, the run defense, linebacker Ivan Pace's year so far, Blake Brandel's play at center, receiver Jordan Addison's future, and more. They also form a list of recently memorable Vikings games that Emily must watch.

    Jordan Addison seals Vikings' win over Browns to close out international trip

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 26:15


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 21-17 win over the Browns in London, which was capped by a 12-yard touchdown caught by Jordan Addison. They also discuss Cam Akers' single snap at quarterback, Quinshon Judkins' 100-yard game against the Vikings defense and what looks to have happened on Will Reichard's missed field goal.

    Vikings fly O-line help to London, Browns name Dillon Gabriel starter

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 41:18


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the latest updates on a number of Vikings injuries, including a handful across the O-line that required the Vikings to fly out added practice support to London. Plus, they chat about key personnel for the Browns, who named rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel their starter for Week 5.

    Carson Wentz's two interceptions loom in Vikings' loss to Steelers in Dublin

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 39:24


    Ben Goessling joins from Dublin as the Access Vikings crew, including Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker, break down Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Why did a play clock have a key role at the end of the loss? They also discuss the unrelenting O-line injuries, quarterback Carson Wentz's performance, the defense's inability to force Aaron Rodgers into a mistake, and more.

    Jordan Addison returns from suspension as Vikings prepare to head abroad

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 27:47


    Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Vikings injuries entering Week 4, in which the Vikings head overseas to play the Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, and wide receiver Jordan Addison's return to practice after serving his 3-game suspension stemming from a drunken driving arrest in July 2024. Plus, they continue the discussion of the Vikings' quarterback situation as Carson Wentz is set to make his second start with J.J. McCarthy still mending an ankle sprain.

    Isaiah Rodgers, Vikings defense show up big in rout of Bengals

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 24:18


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 48-10 drubbing of the Cincinnati Bengals, starting with cornerback Isaiah Rodgers' history-making performance. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw and safety Harrison Smith returned and made immediate impacts. Kicker Will Reichard just set a franchise record. It's the rebound performance the Vikings needed.

    Vikings mailbag: Harrison Smith's absence? Cam Akers' return? Quicker pass plays?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 24:25


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about safety Harrison Smith's absence and how that has affected the defense, running back Cam Akers' annual return to Minnesota, the philosophies of Kevin O'Connell's offense, and more.

    Vikings turn to QB Carson Wentz with J.J. McCarthy in walking boot

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 32:01


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' pivot to quarterback Carson Wentz, who joined the team Aug. 24, amid quarterback J.J. McCarthy's ankle injury. What to expect from Wentz against the Bengals on Sunday? Who will be protecting Wentz along the offensive line? And what do history lessons tell us about what this season could become?

    Vikings offense comes up empty in home opener loss to Falcons

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 28:49


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker come to you from U.S. Bank Stadium, where the Vikings lost the home opener, 22-6, to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. What to make of the listless showing from quarterback J.J. McCarthy and company? What about the mounting injuries and unrelenting pressure in the pocket? What to make of the defensive showing? Where do they go from here?

    Vikings mailbag: Dallas Turner's time? Plan without Blake Cashman? Sacking Michael Penix Jr.?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 25:10


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about linebacker Blake Cashman's absence, the pass rush matchup versus the Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. on Sunday night, receiver Adam Thielen's role, and more ahead of Vikings-Falcons.

    Vikings defense dealing with key injuries as talented Falcons come to town

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 26:05


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday night's Vikings-Falcons matchup that will bring intrigue on both sides of the ball. They discuss the issues and ailments to key defenders like Blake Cashman, Andrew Van Ginkel and Harrison Smith, the 2024 draft class with J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr., Kirk Cousins returning, and more.

    J.J. McCarthy needs one Vikings start to show lauded intangibles

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 28:29


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 27-24 win after returning from Chicago, where quarterback J.J. McCarthy had a historic fourth quarter in his NFL debut. What did teammates and coaches say about McCarthy afterward? What went wrong in the first three quarters? When is Christian Darrisaw coming back? They also discuss the running back split, Javon Hargrave's presence, and a dynamic new punt returner in Myles Price.

    Vikings mailbag: Adam Thielen's role? Cornerback help? Brian Flores vs. Caleb Williams?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2025 32:55


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings-related questions about receiver Adam Thielen, the cornerback depth chart, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, and the latest on ailments for safety Harrison Smith and tackle Christian Darrisaw.

    Ready or not, Vikings begin J.J. McCarthy era in Chicago on Monday night

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 31:41


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Monday night's season opener in Chicago, where Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will return to face his hometown team in his first NFL start. How will he manage the emotions? How will the Vikings manage him? And what should be expected in the matchup of makeovers between the Vikings defense and the Bears offense under new coach Ben Johnson?

    Talking Adam Thielen's return, 53-man roster, and J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota State Fair

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 48:11


    From the Star Tribune booth at the Minnesota State Fair, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Adam Thielen returning to the Vikings, the initial 53-man roster, remaining work to do, and how the young J.J. McCarthy is set up to fare in the NFC North.

    Vikings shake up QB depth chart, signing Carson Wentz and trading Sam Howell

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 25:09


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break down the Vikings' recent flurry of moves that included trading quarterback Sam Howell to the Eagles and signing free agent veteran Carson Wentz as their new backup. They discuss the Vikings' many ties to Wentz, including QBs coach Josh McCown and center Ryan Kelly, that may help explain the move. They also get into a potential trade for receiver Adam Thielen and the recent trade that sent Harrison Phillips to the Jets.

    Justin Jefferson practicing again, but Vikings need receiver help with roster cuts looming

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 45:04


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the state of the Vikings receiving corps about two weeks away from Week 1. Do they need to add a veteran starter? Who's available? And what other injury concerns are still lingering with training camp mostly over? They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about camp surprises, Aaron Jones' versatility, and more.

    Vikings rest starters but emerge from preseason loss with QB, WR questions

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 20:08


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard during and after Saturday's 20-12 preseason loss to the New England Patriots. What do they make of the Vikings resting 31 players, including all 22 starters? What about Sam Howell's lackluster performance and more uncertainty at backup QB? Receiver depth is also a question, as are the returner spots, entering the preseason's final week.

    Recapping Vikings-Patriots joint practices: J.J. McCarthy shines, Stefon Diggs makes noise

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 22:23


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the second day of Vikings-Patriots joint practices at TCO Performance Center in Eagan, which saw J.J. McCarthy give one of his best performances of camp. They also discuss the return of WR Stefon Diggs, the former Vikings draft pick, Saturday's game plan and some injury updates.

    J.J. McCarthy returns with most Vikings starters in preseason win over Texans

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 23:14


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the important parts of the Vikings' preseason opener against the Houston Texans. How did J.J. McCarthy look? Why did some starters play and others didn't? How bad is Rondale Moore's knee injury? And who stood out with the second and third units?

    Former Vikings safety Anthony Harris joins the show, Jordan Addison suspended

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 61:49


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker first discuss receiver Jordan Addison's 3-game suspension and where the Vikings go from here. Is Adam Thielen an option? They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about J.J. McCarthy vs. Sam Darnold, preseason action, etc. Then Ben and Andrew are joined by ex-Vikings safety Anthony Harris to discuss his career, this year's team, Mike Zimmer vs. Brian Flores, and more.

    How much will Vikings play J.J. McCarthy in the preseason?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 24:50


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the latest from Vikings training camp. QB J.J. McCarthy returns to the field in Saturday's preseason opener vs. the Texans. How much will he play? Who will play alongside him? What, exactly, caused a recent pause at practice when Kevin O'Connell had to intervene? And which players made Ben's initial 53-man roster projection?

    Vikings mailbag: Judging camp performances? J.J. McCarthy's growth? Cornerback depth?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2025 45:16


    Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about judging training camp performances, quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development, offensive line health, defensive dominance, cornerback depth, and more.

    Hall of Fame voter Mark Craig on Vikings legend Jared Allen's induction, career stories and the 2025 class

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 33:05


    Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker are joined by Star Tribune NFL writer and Pro Football Hall of Fame voter Mark Craig, who is in Canton, Ohio for former Vikings great Jared Allen's induction. How does Allen feel now about his wait to get into the Hall? Who's the next Viking to get in?

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