
Join Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano on The Real Forno Show as they preview the Vikings’ 2025 schedule release, discuss J.J. McCarthy’s potential primetime debut, and analyze rookie minicamp standouts Harmon and Williams. Plus, get insights on international matchups and key divisional games in this Vikings 1st & SKOL episode.
The latest The Real Forno Show episode, hosted by Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano on Vikings 1st & SKOL, offers an engaging preview of the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 NFL season, focusing on the schedule release set for May 14, 2025. The hosts speculate on primetime games featuring rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, discuss controlled NFL leaks like Week 16 Christmas Day games, and analyze rookie minicamp standouts, including new signings Matt Harmon (edge rusher, Kent State) and Elijah Williams (defensive tackle, Morgan State). Forness highlights the Vikings’ cautious minicamp approach under Kevin O’Connell, while Stefano predicts a bold schedule, including the rumored international games against the Steelers and Browns. With keywords like Minnesota Vikings, J.J. McCarthy, NFL schedule, and rookie minicamp, this episode targets fans searching for 2025 season insights. The hosts’ chemistry and deep analysis make it essential listening for Vikings enthusiasts.
Key Points of the Episode:
- Schedule Release Preview: The NFL schedule drops May 14, 2025; Forness predicts 4-5 primetime games for the Vikings, driven by McCarthy’s appeal and the team’s 14-win 2024 season.
- Stefano’s Schedule Prediction: Includes Week 1 vs. Falcons, Week 2 Monday Night Football at Seahawks, international games in Weeks 4-5 (Steelers in Dublin, Browns in London), and a Week 17 clash at Green Bay. – Confirmed this morning.
- Rookie Minicamp Insights: Held May 9-10, 2025; Vikings prioritize teaching over intense drills to avoid injuries, per O’Connell’s philosophy.
- Matt Harmon Signing: 6’6” edge rusher from Kent State; injury history but impressive 95th percentile three-cone (6.95 seconds); low production (4 sacks) raises questions.
- Elijah Williams Signing: Morgan State defensive tackle; 33 sacks, 52 tackles for loss at FCS level; 97th percentile short shuttle, compared to Javon Hargrave.
- McCarthy’s Spotlight: National intrigue around McCarthy’s debut fuels primetime predictions; Forness notes a “different vibe” compared to 2024’s Sam Darnold era.
- Schedule Volatility: Forness emphasizes schedules “mean everything and nothing,” citing 2024’s unexpected 5-0 start despite a tough early gauntlet.
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Vikings fans, ignite your SKOL spirit with The Real Forno Show on Vikings 1st & SKOL, partnered with Fans First Sports Network! Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano deliver electrifying insights into the 2025 schedule, J.J. McCarthy’s potential, and rookie minicamp stars like Elijah Williams. Will Minnesota dominate primetime and chase a Super Bowl? Join the live schedule release show on May 14 at 7 PM CT on YouTube, subscribe, and ring the bell to stay in the game. Don’t miss out—stream now on Spotify or YouTube and rally for the Vikings! SKOL!
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Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and its NFL feed @FFSN_NFL.