Breaking: Vikings vs Buccaneers Week 3 Watch Guide

Minnesota Vikings players preparing for the Vikings vs Buccaneers Week 3 matchup

Image Source: Minnesota Vikings

Vikings vs Buccaneers is set for a pivotal Week 3 matchup as Minnesota travels to Tampa Bay on Sunday, Sept. 27. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. Central Time, with the Vikings looking to continue a perfect start and the Buccaneers hoping to earn their first victory of the 2026 season.

Minnesota has opened the campaign 2-0 after defeating NFC North rivals Green Bay and Chicago. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, enters the contest at 0-2 following losses to AFC North opponents Cincinnati and Cleveland. The contrasting starts add early urgency to a matchup between two former NFC Central division rivals.

Vikings vs Buccaneers Broadcast Details Revealed

The game will be televised nationally in select areas by FOX, including KMSP in the Twin Cities market. Kenny Albert will handle play-by-play, while former NFL linebacker Jonathan Vilma provides analysis. Megan Olivi will report from the sideline.

  • Game: Minnesota Vikings at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Date: Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026
  • Kickoff: 3:05 p.m. CT
  • Television: FOX, including KMSP in the Twin Cities
  • Play-by-play: Kenny Albert
  • Analyst: Jonathan Vilma
  • Sideline reporter: Megan Olivi

Viewers in other markets should check their local FOX listings because regional broadcast availability may vary. The matchup is the 58th meeting between the franchises and the first since the 2023 season opener.

Powerful Pregame Coverage Begins Early

Fans in the Twin Cities can begin their Sunday with Vikings GameDay Live on FOX 9. The pregame program is scheduled to air from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Central Time, providing team news, analysis and preparation for the afternoon kickoff.

The Vikings’ official audio coverage begins earlier in the afternoon. The Vikings Audio Network pregame show starts at 1 p.m., followed by live game coverage at 3:05 p.m. Paul Allen will call the action, with Pete Bercich serving as analyst and Ben Leber reporting from the sideline.

How to Listen to Vikings at Buccaneers

Radio listeners can follow the game through KFAN 100.3-FM, KTLK 1130-AM and the five-state Vikings Audio Network. The network includes 70 affiliates across the Upper Midwest, giving fans multiple options to hear the game live.

Spanish-language coverage will also be available through Tico Sports on WREY 94.9 FM and 630 AM. Gabriel Rios will provide play-by-play, joined by analyst Isaias Zendejas.

SiriusXM listeners can use the following channels:

  • Vikings broadcast: Channel 264, or device 820
  • Buccaneers broadcast: Channel 195, or device 829
  • National broadcast: Channel 180

Critical Early-Season Stakes

Although the season is only three games old, the result could shape the outlook for both teams. Minnesota is seeking a 3-0 record and another strong performance against an NFC opponent. The Vikings’ victories over Green Bay and Chicago have created momentum, but a road game in Tampa presents a different test.

For the Buccaneers, the pressure is immediate. An 0-2 record means Tampa Bay is trying to avoid falling further behind in the NFC South. The team will look to rebound at home against a Minnesota squad that has already demonstrated it can handle divisional competition.

The matchup also renews a familiar rivalry. Minnesota and Tampa Bay previously shared the NFC Central, and Sunday’s meeting will mark the 58th game in the series. Their most recent meeting came in the 2023 season opener, making this contest a notable return to the schedule.

Streaming and Mobile Viewing Options

Fans seeking additional viewing options can use NFL digital services, depending on local broadcast restrictions and the specific package available in their market. NFL+ offers live local and prime-time regular-season games on phones and tablets, live game audio and NFL Network access. NFL+ Premium adds full-game replays, condensed replays, coaches film and NFL RedZone.

Because the Vikings-Buccaneers game is scheduled for FOX, local television availability remains the simplest option for viewers inside the broadcast area. Fans should confirm coverage before kickoff and have their preferred radio or streaming setup ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Vikings vs Buccaneers game?

The game will be played Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 3:05 p.m. Central Time.

What channel is broadcasting Vikings at Buccaneers?

FOX will televise the game in select markets. KMSP will carry the matchup in the Twin Cities area.

Who are the broadcast announcers?

Kenny Albert will provide play-by-play, Jonathan Vilma will serve as analyst and Megan Olivi will report from the sideline.

What are the teams’ records entering Week 3?

Minnesota enters with a 2-0 record, while Tampa Bay is 0-2 after two losses.

How can fans listen on the radio?

The game will air on KFAN 100.3-FM, KTLK 1130-AM and the Vikings Audio Network. Spanish coverage will be available through Tico Sports.