In this business, big story lines are the best gifts. Minnesota sports teams got an early jump on the holidays this week, bestowing upon us one of the newsiest weeks across several teams that I can remember.
Chip Scoggins and I talked through a few of them on Friday's Daily Delivery podcast, which included Chip's nuanced takes on the Gophers, Vikings and Wild.
Here is a brief recap of five of those big stories, as well as one thought from me on each of them:
Gophers quarterback shakeup: On Monday, New Hampshire graduate transfer quarterback Max Brosmer announced he had an offer from the Gophers. A day later, 2023 Gophers starter Athan Kaliakmanis announced he is entering the transfer portal.
What it means: The Gophers need more from their quarterback after Kaliakmanis fell short of expectations. While it sets the Gophers back in their big-picture planning since Kaliakmanis was projected as a multiyear starter, head coach P.J. Fleck had to at least explore competition at the position in 2024. Perhaps Brosmer will be at least a temporary solution.
Vikings quarterback conundrum: A rough second half for Joshua Dobbs against Denver and four interceptions on Monday against the Bears, both in Vikings losses, have put the team's starting quarterback job back in question.
What it means: I have the sense that head coach Kevin O'Connell is going to turn to Nick Mullens — who would be the Vikings' fourth starting QB in 13 games this season — when the team returns from its bye week. I think that would be a mistake because Dobbs has shown plenty of upside in addition to downside, but offensive coaches tend to like known commodities who can run their systems instead of dynamic risk-reward freelancers.
Wild change coaches, heat up: The Wild on Monday fired Dean Evason and hired John Hynes as head coach.
