Listen to the Vikings Water Cool Podcast
Optimism is running high for the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the 2026 NFL season, and hosts of the “Vikings Water Cooler Talk with Stitch and BJ” podcast believe the team could be poised for a deep playoff run.
With the NFL schedule release just hours away during the recording of the episode, the hosts spent the show predicting the Vikings’ schedule, discussing offseason additions and debating the team’s quarterback situation.
The conversation centered heavily around newly acquired quarterback Kyler Murray and young signal caller J.J. McCarthy, with both hosts agreeing the Vikings appear set for an open quarterback competition entering training camp.
“I love that it’s a true quarterback competition now,” one host said during the podcast.
The hosts suggested Murray could begin the season as the starter, while McCarthy may eventually take over later in the year if injuries or performance issues arise. They also discussed the possibility of McCarthy winning the job outright.
Despite uncertainty at quarterback, both hosts expressed confidence in the Vikings’ roster, particularly the offense. They praised the team’s improved running game, offensive line depth and newly added receiving options, including veteran wide receiver Jauan Jennings.
“People are going to pay attention to Justin Jefferson, they’re going to pay attention to Jordan Addison, then you’ve got to deal with the physicality of Jauan Jennings,” one host said.
Using an AI-generated predicted schedule created through ChatGPT, the hosts walked through each potential matchup week by week. The simulated projection predicted the Vikings would finish with a 12-5 or possibly 13-4 record and contend for one of the top playoff seeds in the NFC.
The projected slate included early wins over division rival Chicago Bears and the Atlanta Falcons, along with difficult matchups against the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers.
The hosts also discussed the strength of the NFC North, which they described as one of the toughest divisions in football. Still, they believe Minnesota’s revamped defense could make the difference this season.
“Our defense got way stronger,” one host said. “Younger and stronger.”
The podcast wrapped with excitement surrounding the upcoming official schedule release and the possibility of the Vikings emerging as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
“We’re 12 to 14 wins this year,” one host predicted. “Easy.”
Tune in next week to the Podcast to hear their predictions to the actual schedule.
Vikings Water Cooler Talk is a podcast avai;able everywhere and broadcast on the Cowboy 104.7 , 920 AM every Friday at 2pm
