Nick Olson, Gregg Blake, and Matt Fries cover the Minnesota Vikings. They dive deep on the team from an analytics, film, and fan perspective.
Matt is back with a film breakdown of Vikings third round pick Tai Felton. Check out a lot of discussion about the following traits:Release gameRoute runningHands techniqueContested catchesAfter CatchBlockingMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with a film breakdown of Vikings first round pick Donovan Jackson. Check out a lot of discussion about the following traits:Match and mirror abilityAnchorHandfightingStunt pickupRun game athleticismSecond level targetingDrive ability in the run gameLatch ability in the run gameMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is joined by Tyler Forness of AtoZ Sports to review the Vikings picks in the 2025 NFL Draft!* Would you have been willing to trade back?* A discussion on the value of the Giants and Falcons trades up* What would the draft look like if the Vikings had traded back?* Donovan Jackson breakdown* Tai Felton breakdown* Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins breakdown* Draft day trades* Sam Howell breakdown* Kobe King breakdown* Gavin Bartholomew breakdown* Notes on UDFA additions, including Max Brosmer, Logan Brown, Ben Yurosek, and Tyler BattyMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with special guest Luke Braun to preview what the Minnesota Vikings might do in the 2025 NFL Draft!Topics include:* Luke's top 5 options for the Vikings at 24* In depth discussions of Kenneth Grant, Derrick Harmon, Walter Nolen, CJ West, Tyler Booker, Grey Zabel, Shavon Revel, Maxwell Hairston, Trey Amos, Azareye'h Thomas, Benjamin Morrison, Jahdae Barron, Nick Emmanwori, and Malaki Starks* The player Luke would want to TRADE UP for if he fell* Identifying potential trade down partners for the Vikings* Potential day 3 picks at OL, DL, DB, RB, and QBEverything you need to prepare you for an instant reaction to the Vikings' pick on draft day is inside!Special Guest: Luke Braun, @LukeBraunNFL on BlueSky, Locked on Vikings Podcast, https://www.patreon.com/LukeBraunNFLMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on bskyWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back after extensive film study to do deep dives on each of the Vikings' additions that are expected to be significant contributors in 2025. Tune in for full scouting reports on:* Will Fries* Ryan Kelly* Jonathan Allen* Javon Hargrave* Isaiah Rodgers* Jordan MasonMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to recap a busy week of Vikings free agency including:* Breakdowns of players who've signed elsewhere* Vikings re-signings* New Vikings additions* A 2026 compensatory pick update* Players cut and traded for* Why the Vikings are over the cap in 2026, and why that's not a problem* Aaron Rodgers to the Vikings?!?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with a complete mock free agency for the Minnesota Vikings. Including full contract projections (based on PFF projections) and minute salary cap details, this will be the most comprehensive free agency simulation you'll find, including:* How comp picks work and what cutoffs will ensure the Vikings get a 3rd rounder for Sam Darnold* Clearing cap with cuts* Free agent tenders, extensions, and re-signings* A bounty of outside free agents* Milton Williams!?!* A 53-man roster projection* Assessing potential restructure, cut, and extension candidates* Remaining weak points after the mock* Options who don't count against the compensatory formulaMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to talk about how the Minnesota Vikings should handle the fast-approaching NFL free agency. Topics include:* Should the team franchise tag Sam Darnold?* What to do with the upcoming FAs in the CB room* What to do with Cam Bynum and Harrison Smith* Yes or No to all other impending FAs* Top 5 needs for the Vikings* Discussions on top FA targets: Milton Williams, Jevon Holland, DJ Reed, and Trey Smith* Other potential targets at positions of needMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with a (very delayed) episode to put a wrap on the Minnesota Vikings 2024 season! The episode includes depth analysis on what went wrong during the Vikings last two games, but also a recognition and celebration of what each of the starters were able to add to the team over the course of the season!Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to discuss the Minnesota Vikings' thrilling win against the Green Bay Packers and preview their game against the Detroit Lions to determine the No. 1 Seed in the NFC. Topics include:* High level play design from Kevin O'Connell* Sam Darnold's great in-structure play* Justin Jefferson helping close out the game* The ups and downs of the run game* Some credit to Edgerrin Cooper* Jordan Addison's tenacious run blocking* Man coverage on third down on defense* Jonathan Greenard's high level play* Other Vikings pressures from the DL* Is the run defense a concern?* An exsistential discussion about the nature of defense in the playoffs* Keys to the Lions game on offense and defenseMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with a review of the Minnesota Vikings' comeback win against the Seattle Seahawks and a preview of their upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers.Praise for Kevin O'Connell and shade at Jordan Love abounds!vs Seahawks DefenseBasically no rushing attemptsMan coverage on 3rd downsSome difficulty stopping players after the catch on successful drivesGeno getting ball out quickly mitigated pressureVery willing to throw 50/50 balls, incompletions to avoid sacks2 INTs, Turner and Jackson2 INTs dropped, Griffin and CashmanDifference between 2 JSN seams (Bynum/Murphy, Tampa 2/2 Man)DK TD vs Gilmore, JSN TD vs Murphy w/ motion and pick, Barner TD vs GriffinOffenseAttack match-y coverages with route combos (Jefferson 3rd down and Addison TD on first drive)Darnold strong pocket movement but seemed imprecise (high passes, 4th down to Hock, should have been TD to Addison, drop by Oliver, 3rd down Hockenson drop, a couple Jefferson catches - due to weather?)Not a lot of rushing - up and down performance by run gameOL - struggles from various players, Cam Robinson rough game, but mostly kept Darnold clean w/ good pocket movementvs PackersMy lack of respect for Jordan LovePackers run game vs our run defense is wild cardWill Packers be able to generate rush against shaky OL?With time, Darnold should carve up secondaryMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on Apple, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to discuss the Minnesota Vikings' comeback win against the Arizona Cardinals and Preview their game against the Atlanta Falcons. Topics include:OffenseSam Darnold's comeback performance - downs early but incredible performance lateTurndowns/not progressing and holding on to the ball/not throwing hot earlyBrandel disasterclassStill showed good mobilityOn time, correctly identified targets, and made nice throws during comebackJefferson route winning abilityBreakdown of 2 TDsAaron Jones - fumbles but much better in protection than anyone elseCardinals peppered the defense with quick gameRuns were attacking Jerry TilleryHeavy man coverage usageVikings run 1 Blitz with safety covering RB from depthFabian Moreau vs Marvin Harrisonvs FalconsKirk's returnStrong run game with Bijan - can they repeat the Cardinals' performance?Defense lacks star power up frontA bunch of LB/blitzer bodiesBack end (Bates, Terrell, Simmons) dangerous because of turnover forcing abilitiesMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to review the Minnesota Vikings' OT win against the Chicago Bears and preview their game against the Arizona Cardinals. Topics include:* Sam Darnold's excellent game* Addison, Hockenson, and Jones thriving* How Jefferson opened up room for others* Kevin O'Connell is an ELITE play caller* Caleb Williams looks really good* The nature of 2 minute defense* The Vikings handled the end of the game correctly* Can the Cardinals figure out the Vikings defense?* The Vikings need to avoid mistakes against Arizona* Ivan Pace injury* Jamin Davis addition* Akayleb Evans cut* Lack of overall roster movement on the seasonMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back from Nashville with a review of the Titans game and preview of the Bears game.Topics include:* Sam Darnold's strong performance* Justin Jefferson's greatness* A breakdown of the Addison TD* Jalen Nailor questions* Poor run game* Dalton Risner's first start* Overall defensive dominance* The 98-yard TD* Stellar run defense* More Man Coverage* How the Vikings generated 5 sacks* Can Caleb Williams make magic happen?* Will the Bears have answers for the Vikings' blitz* The overrated Bears receiver room* Can the Vikings attack a strong secondary and pass rush* Hopefully a rebound in the run gameMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterAlso on BlueSky!We are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to talk the Minnesota Vikings' win over the Jacksonville Jaguars and preview their game against the Tennessee Titans.* Near misses from the Vikings offense* The TJ Hockenson Drive* Continued Quality Run Blocking* A Discussion about Sam Darnold* Defensive performance in the run game* Jonathan Greenard's elite run defense* How the Vikings attacked the Jags offensive line* Some Great Coverage Plays* Will Levis is bad* Will the Vikings be able to slow down the Titans' pass rush?* Can the Vikings attack the Titans' injured secondary?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt discusses the Vikings win over the Colts and previews the Jaguars Game.* First half mistakes* Terrible no calls on Darnold and the state of NFL officiating* Justin Jefferson takes over in the second half* Sam Darnold's ups and downs* TJ Hockson's Return* Josh Oliver's career game* The run blocking and Cam Akers* Cam Robinson's Debut* Harrison Phillips' Great Game* Improved coverage play and Harrison Smith* Jonathan Greenard's big game* Dallas Turner Review* A nasty Brian Flores blitz* Previewing the Jags - it's pretty much all bad.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back for the 100th episode of Kindred Skols! They go over:* Bye Week Awards for the best performances of the Vikings' season so far* A mailbag including roster-building and coaching staff questions* A preview of the Lions gameThanks for being here as we cross the 100 episode mark!Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to discuss the Vikings' win over the Jets, and just how Brian Flores transformed his defense to the best in the NFL.* Justin Jefferson's up-and-down day* Sam Darnold's rough performance* the Nick Mullens play* Run game without Aaron Jones* Was 2nd half play calling a problem?* Cover 0 shuts down Rodgers and the Jets offense* Breakdown of the 3 INTs* Pass Rush gets going* Dallas Turner 4th down stop* Ivan Pace incredible playsDefense on the season* Coverage disguise is the baseline* How new players have improved coverages* Improved secondary pass rushers* High level run defense* Role players play well* Other interesting defensive statsMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to cover the Minnesota Vikings' win against the Green Bay Packers to improve to 4-0. Topics include:* Focus on Justin Jefferson leading to other open receivers* Jordan Addison's TDs* Jefferson's amazing catch* Sam Darnold's up and down day* Kevin O'Connell remains an elite play designer* A discussion on run/pass decision-making* How the Vikings confounded Jordan Love* Some of the ways the Packers moved the ball* The wide coverage menu the Vikings run* Some crazy ways to get to Tampa 2 and Quarters* Strong run defense* Pass rush ups and downs* Jets preview, can Rodgers solve the Vikings defense?* How will the Vikings do against Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall?* Can Justin Jefferson win one-on-one against Sauce Gardner?* A winning formula for running the ball against the JetsMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick(!) are back to review the Minnesota Vikings' surprising win against the San Francisco 49ers and look forward to their game against the Houston Texans. Topics include:* Brian Flores' "crazy" defensive scheme* How the defense has improved year over year* Blake Cashman's big day* Jonathan Greenard, Pat Jones, and the rest of the Vikings' DL* Run defense ups and downs* How hard it is to play the 49ers' offense* The Vikings effectiveness running the ball* IOL blocking* The huge Justin Jefferson TD* Other exciting scheme wrinkles* Is Sam Darnold... good?* Miscues that need cleaning up* CJ Stroud is awesome* The sheer number of Texans on the Vikings, and vice versa* Danielle Hunter and the Texans' pass rush* Keys to the gameMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to review the Minnesota Vikings' Week 1 game against the New York Giants, and preview their upcoming matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.Topics include:* Sam Darnold's first game as a Vikings* Kevin O'Connell's great play designs* Justin Jefferson's big plays* Aaron Jones transforming the run game* Pass pro struggles with Dexter Lawrence* Christian Darrisaw's dominance* Vikings' defensive coverage variety* Harrison Phillips' well-deserved extension* Andrew Van Ginkel's huge day* Other DL odds and ends* Vikings' defense playing with their hair on fire* Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus and Football Intelligence* Check-in on Vikings veteran additions at CB* How to stop the 49ers' weapons* How to attack the 49ers' defenseMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnfl@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back to discuss the Vikings' Preseason, 53 man roster, state of the team heading into the 2024 season, and preview the Vikings' Week 1 game against the Giants.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back with an emergency episode to go over the full details of the Justin Jefferson contract extension and gush about his play.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to deep dive the player we hope is the Minnesota Vikings' next franchise QB, JJ McCarthy. They cover every aspect of his game, including:* Physical talent compared to other QBs* Dropback footwork* Pocket management and play under pressure* Mental processing* Ability to read NFL plays* Accuracy and arm talent* Running abilityWith tons from Matt's charting, this is an episode you won't want to miss!Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Minnesota Vikings haul in the 2024 NFL Draft. Topics include:* First round trades* JJ McCarthy* Dallas Turner* Khyree Jackson* Walter Rouse* Will Reichard* Michael Jurgens* Levi Drake Rodriguez* UDFAs, including Gabriel Murphy, Dwight McGlothern, and Bo RichterMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt brings on special guest Luke Braun of the Locked on Vikings podcast to discuss the candidates to fill the Vikings' biggest need heading into the draft - Quarterback. Luke gives deep dive scouting reports, fit in the Vikings' offense, projected improvements, and player ceilings on:* Caleb Williams* Jayden Daniels* Drake Maye* JJ McCarthy* Michael Penix* Bo Nixin this jam-packed episode. Check it out!Luke Braun: @LukeBraunNFL, Locked on Vikings Podcast, https://www.patreon.com/LukeBraunNFLMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to do tape deep dive on the Vikings' critical defensive additions, cover the rest of free agency, and discuss the Vikings' trade options in the 2024 NFL draft.Topics include:* Jonathan Greenard* Blake Cashman* Andrew Van Ginkel* Shaq Griffin* Comp pick impact of Griffin signing* Less expensive FAs* Harrison Smith restructure* Remaining cap space and team needs* Analysis of the pre-draft trade up to 23* Potential trade partners and packages for the Vikings to get a QB* A bonus outtake at the end!Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss a flurry of moves that technically haven't happened yet. They cover everything new and former Vikings, including:* Kirk Cousins* Sam Darnold* Danielle Hunter* Jonathan Greenard* Andrew Van Ginkel* Blake Cashman* Aaron Jones* Blake Brandel* David Quessenberry* Brandon Powell* Johnny Mundt* John Parker Romo* Dean Lowry* William Kwenku* Remaining needs and potential targetsMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the most pressing questions the Vikings have before NFL free agency starts next week:* What do you want the team to do with the Kirk Cousins contract situation?* Would you re-sign Danielle Hunter. If not, who do you want to go after on the defensive line?* Who do you want to target to be the Vikings LG?* Should the Vikings look at investing in RB in Free Agency?* Who is one outside free agent you want the Vikings to target aggressively?* What should the Vikings do with Harrison Smith's contract?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back after way too long of a hiatus. They discuss what happened to the defense at the end of the year, Kirk Cousins' contract situation, what they want the Vikings to do about QB in the draft, and the things they like and dislike about the draft QB options.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to give some of the Vikings' best players their praise out of the bye week and talk about the Raiders.* Offensive Player of the Year* Defensive Player of the Year* Offensive Rookie of the Year* Defensive Rookie of the Year* Most Improved Player* Most Underrated Player* Position Coach of the Year* Raiders Offense* Raiders DefenseMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to break down the Vikings' close loss to the Bears:* What's the deal with Kevin O'Connell's conservative decision making? Is it actually fine?* Handing out responsibility for the turnovers* Dobbs coming back down to earth - what is the problem and can it be fixed with a new QB?* Improvements Jordan Addison needs to make* How Flores' defense confounded the Bears' offense* Matt rants about how poorly designed the Bears' offense is* How the Vikings contained Fields and the Bears' run game* We learned more about the structure of the defense from an ESPN article* Great individual performances from Pace, Hunter, Phillips, Day, and MetellusMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @thegreggblake@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to review the Minnesota Vikings' Loss Against the Denver Broncos and preview the upcoming Chicago Bears game.* Gregg talks about his attendance at the Falcons game and his cool ponchoBroncos Game* Matt goes on a rant about the officiating missing Kareem Jackson lowering his helmet* An accounting of the small margins that lost the Vikings this game* What was up with the pass game and Josh Dobbs?* The Passtronaut comes back to earth a little* Ty Chandler and Alexander Mattison made the ground game effective* Everyone steps up on run defense, particularly Harrison Phillips* Ivan Pace's great game* Danielle Hunter continues to dominate* How Brian Flores coverages and contain scheme helped limit Russell Wilson* Mekhi Blackmon's rough dayBears game* Is Justin Fields better than Tyson Bagent?* Are the Bears a serious threat to the Vikings?* Can the Bears' defense limit the Vikings offense?* Game predictionMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Vikings' win against the Saints and their upcoming game against the Broncos.Saints GameOffense- Dobbs off to hot start- Hockenson's record-breaking first half- Slow second half performance- Should O'Connell have been more aggressive?- Mattison hurt- Chandler had a couple of nice reps but wasn't consistentDefense- Lowest blitz rate of year- Forcing false starts- Tackling on quick plays- Coverage disguises and how they confused Carr/Winston- Unsustainable TDs from Winston- Hicks injury- Hunter sack- Wonnum sack- Phillips 3rd down stop- Metellus 4 pressures- Booth/Blackmon play wellBroncos Game- Russ is actually pretty efficient this year- Susceptible to sacks/didn't appear to have great pressure answers- Defense had a terrible start to the year but seems to have picked it up- Does the result change if JJ is back?- Barr signed to practice squadMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Josh Dobbs' incredible and unlikely performance in the Minnesota Vikings' win against the Atlanta Falcons, offensive injuries, Danielle Hunter's greatness, preview the New Orleans Saints, and more.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss Kirk Cousins' Achilles injury, replacing Kirk with Jaren Hall or Josh Dobbs, the Ezra Cleveland trade, and a review of the Packers game followed by a preview of the Falcons game.* Kirk was playing some of the best ball of his career* How the injury impacts the Vikings' chances* How the injury might impact FA plans for Kirk and the Vikings* Jaren Hall, Josh Dobbs, or Nick Mullens -- who do you expect to play* How the offense might need to change for Dobbs and Hall* Packers review - sending off Kirk by discussing his excellent game* Jordan Addison, the weapons, and the play design step up* Analyzing Jaren Hall's five dropbacks* We finally scored a TD, but what's up with the run game?* Falcons preview - old friend Taylor Heinicke* The Falcons have offensive talent, but can they use it?* On defense, what's stopping the Vikings?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Minnesota Vikings' exciting win on MNF against the San Francisco 49ers and preview the week 8 game against the Green Bay Packers.Offense:* Kirk Cousins plays lights out* Kevin O'Connell's brilliant play calling* Jordan Addison's awesome game* Hockenson and Powell step up* Great offensive line play* Run game - who's better? Mattison or Akers?Defense:* Flores' 5-1-5 package and stopping the run* Interior DL plays great against run* Kyle Shanahan designs exploit the secondary* Danielle Hunter's awesome sack* Cam Bynum's great gamePackers:* Is Jordan Love good?* How the Vikings' offense stacks up against the Packers* Will the Packers ever put their defensive talent into a cohesive unit?* How the Vikings' defense stacks up against the Packers* Ways this game could go wrong for the VikingsThanks for sticking around through a long episode! Hope you enjoyed.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt does a solo pod to cover the Bears game and preview the 49ers. Topics include:* Offense sputtering without JJ* Will the supporting cast be able to get back on track?* Is Alexander Mattison a problem, and what's up with the Vikings #1 run blocking grade?* Covering the defense's dominant performance* Why the defense blitzes so much with low pressure numbers* How QB play effects defensive performance* Will Brock Purdy have his weapons?* Will Brock Purdy be able to succeed without weapons?* How will the Vikings offense perform against the 49ers defense without JJ?* What is the path to victory?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to discuss the Minnesota Vikings' loss to the Chiefs, Justin Jefferson's injury, and preview the game against the Bears.Topics include:* Continued offensive miscues* Quality run defense* Lamenting Justin Jefferson's injury* How do we replace JJ?* TJ Hockenson and Jordan Addison* Matt ranting that the Vikings' run game is fine, actually* Close misses on defense* Brian Flores' wacky play calls* Is Justin Fields good?* How does the Vikings defense match up against the Bears?* Disrespect of the Bears' defenseMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Vikings win against the Panthers and upcoming game against the Chiefs.Week 4 vs PanthersDefense Takes OverMarcus Davenport gets his first real actionHow has the Flores defense progressed – or has it?Harrison Smith 3 sacksOther players that have stood outOffense sputtersContinued red zone turnoversJJ is still greatDo you miss Adam Thielen?Run game dominatesBad day for KirkWeek 5 vs ChiefsMahomes looked mortal last weekTravis SwiftChiefs defense – who concerns youMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Vikings loss to the Chargers and their upcoming game against the Panthers.Week 3 vs. ChargersOffenseMishapsClock managementHockenson turnoversRed zone offenseRun game shows upGreat run blocking and play from backsPassing gameJJ dominant againContinuing to convert explosive playsKirk taking sacks/inconsistentDefenseHerbert and Allen shred usBlitz happyMatt has a bunch of statsWe shut down the run game at leastDo you agree with the philosophy? What needs to be done differently?Panthers PreviewBryce Young practicesThe return of Adam ThielenDoes his statline 11-145-1 mean he's good?Anyone concern you on defense?Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Nick runs a solo pod to discuss:• Dalton Risner is a Viking! But where will he play? Will he start? Is he an upgrade?• Eagles review -- How O'Connell schemed up a storm. Why Brian Flores doesn't care about run fits. How to fix the run defense and passing shots going forward• Chargers preview -- Herbert commands an elite offense, but a banged-up Chargers' defense means we may be headed for a shootout. How to attack Staley's defense. How Herbert could slice up Flores.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Vikings' Week 1 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and preview the Vikings game vs. the Eagles.OffenseTurnovers story of game3 and out issueWhat's new from the run game - OliverPersonnel usage leads to explosive passing playsAddison TDOffensive line commentsDefenseCouldn't get off the field in the 2nd half, what changed?Corners need to play tighter in off manBaker deserves credit for getting the ball out quickFlores blitzesI have blitzed 16/37 (43%) with 11 of 21 non blitzes as sim pressures, with 5 addition 5 down rushesBengal discussionStout run defensePersonnelPace and no AsamoahMetellusSpecial TeamsWe ended up with bad DVOA againWill opposing kickers ever miss long FGs against us?Eagles PreviewTheir offense sucked vs the PatsCan we block their DL?Potential weaknesses in the back 7 (Bradbury and Dean out, Blankenship and Justin Evans, Christian Eliss and Zach Cunningham0-2 is badMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to discuss the Vikings 53-man roster, talk about expectations for the team this season, preview the rest of the division, and go over the Bucs game.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt does a solo episode of the podcast to discuss the individual player performances from the Minnesota Vikings' preseason week 2 game vs. the Tennessee Titans.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Nick are back to discuss the Vikings' first preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks. Topics include:* The new look defense under Brian Flores* Ivan Pace* Lewis Cine* Luiji Vilain* The CB room* The differences in the run game* Ty Chandler* Jordan Addison* Jalen Reagor and Brandon Powell* Josh Oliver* Johnny Mundt and Nick Muse* Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall* Blake Brandel and the rest of the OLMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to go over in-depth scouting reports for the remainder of the Vikings' draft class, including Jay Ward, Jaquelin Roy, Jaren Hall, and DeWayne McBride, as well as UDFA Ivan Pace.Tune in to hear full scouting reports and role projections for each player.Part 1, which includes Jordan Addison and Mekhi Blackmon, can be found here:https://youtu.be/R0Tvliq-O1cMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt and Gregg are back to discuss recent changes to the Minnesota Vikings and go through deep dives on each of the players the Vikings drafted.First, they cover the Dalvin Cook cut and Za'Darius Smith trade before moving into the first two picks the Vikings made: Jordan Addison and Mekhi Blackmon.Tune in for detailed scouting reports and role analysis for each player. In part 2, the rest of the selections will be discussed.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
Matt is back with Randy (@hmmmmyesquite on Twitter) to go over initial impressions of all of the picks the Vikings made and some of the top UDFAs.(Note: Apologies for the poor audio at the very beginning)The gang will be back later with a full review of every player the Vikings drafted after watching the tape.Matt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)
The Minnesota Vikings selected Jordan Addison with the #23 overall pick, and Matt and Nick break down the player plus his potential impact on the Vikings.
Matt and Gregg are back with special guest Luke Braun for a jam-packed episode previewing the 2023 draft. Topics include:* Everything you need to know about the QBs in the draft* Who would you trade up to get, and what would you give up?* What non-QBs should the Vikings look at with #23?* Analysis on the top CBs, WRs, and IDL in the draft* What do you think of trading back?* Day 2 CBs, WRs, IDL, and LBs* Day 3 favoritesSpecial Guest - Luke Braun (@LukeBraunNFL) from the Locked on Vikings Podcast, Minnesota Football Party, https://www.patreon.com/LukeBraunNFLMatt Fries @friesfootball Nick Olson @nickolsonnflGregg Blake @youvebeengreggd@kindredskols on twitterWe are available on iTunes, Spotify, wherever you get your podcastsYoutube - Kindred Skols (link in Twitter Bio)