A former gopher who grew up homeless and eventually earned a PhD. Tommy Wayson's story inspired a short film, and he believes sports can help aid in curing teen homelessness.

This week on kickoff countdown, a back-up Q-B battle between the Vikings and Bengals begs the question: who will seize the spotlight? Plus, meet the man motivating College and pro athletes as he overcomes a rare disease. and a Minnesota native returns home to take a spot under center with help from a familiar face.

He stayed his entire career and he is conquering. Jameson Geers is the Gophers pass catching tight end. He's now a senior, choosing Coach PJ Fleck and his teammates over the transfer portal with his parents standing right by his side.

The Vikings look to capitalize on a wild comeback win, how teammates are supporting the new star who missed practice for the maternity ward.A local family remembers their son and brother, a football player who made a splash and left the world too soon.And a Viking Lineman is a dual threat on the field and stage.

Former Viking Nate Burleson shares his thoughts on the competitive NFC North, and a rare condition stopped a star athlete's competitive career. How he's using his battle to help others.

All eyes on J.J. McCarthy as the Vikings head into Week One with high expectations. We go one on one with former NFL QBs Rich Gannon, Jim McMahon, Daunte Culpepper and Ryan Leaf for their take on Minnesota's new signal caller. Plus former Viking Nate Burleson shares his thoughts on the competitive NFC North, and a rare condition stopped a star athlete's competitive career. How he's using his battle to help others.

This week on Kickoff Countdown, Mike Max dives into the stories shaping the sports world—on and off the field. From somber reflections following the Annunciation church tragedy to the return of a hometown hero. A veteran chain gang member shares memories of a game-changing trade, and high school football kicks off with full force. All that and more, right here on Kickoff Countdown with Mike Max.

This week on Kickoff Countdown, Mike Max dives into all things Vikings as they wrap up the preseason. He chats with a former player recently honored by the President, spotlights the rising importance of mental health in pro sports, and brings you more can't-miss stories—only on Kickoff Countdown with Mike Max.

On this week's Kickoff Countdown, Mike Max sits down with Jim Nantz, sports commentating legend to talk legacy; Ren Clayton meets the Vikings and Patriots on the field skirmishing to train for the coming season; Hear about the Packer's close call with quarterback Jordan Love's injury and it's impact on the regular season, and more in this week's Kickoff Countdown with Mike Max.

CBS Sports host Jim Nantz talks with WCCO's Mike Max about special golf projects in Minnesota.