Kickoff Countdown with Mike Max

Welcome to WCCO's Kickoff Countdown, your source for all things Viking and Gopher football! Each week, Mike Max previews the college and pro football matchups that matter in the upcoming weekend. Plus, we check in on the Packers and Badgers and go behind the headlines with stories you won't get anywhere else. What's at stake on game day? This is your ticket to action and insights all season long.

Episodes

Kickoff Countdown Week 3

August 22, 2025 • 13 mins

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.

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Kickoff Countdown Week 2

August 15, 2025 • 11 mins

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.

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Kickoff Countdown Week 2 - Jim Nantz Interview EXTRA

August 15, 2025 • 7 mins

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

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Kickoff Countdown Week 1 - Cris Carter EXTRA

August 8, 2025 • 19 mins

Mike Max interviews Cris Carter about his life and football.

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Kickoff Countdown Week 1

August 8, 2025 • 11 mins

The Vikings and Packers prepare for their preseason openers. Gophers star safety Koi Perich's expanding role and how NIL can create more power for players. Cris Carter opens up about battling addiction on his road to the Hall of Fame.

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Introducing: Kickoff Countdown with Mike Max

August 1, 2025 • 55 secs

A look ahead to professional and college football games of the week from WCCO-TV's Sports Director, Mike Max.

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