Kittson County end Vikings season again at state quarterfinal

The Cook County Vikings fell to the Kittson County Central Bearcats 47-18 in the state football tournament quarterfinals Thursday, marking the second consecutive year the Vikings’ season has ended in the quarterfinals.

Cook County also lost to Kittson County last year, but this year’s matchup was more competitive. After falling behind 21-0 early in last year’s game, the Vikings kept pace with the Bearcats in the first half Thursday, trailing 14-10 at halftime.

However, Kittson County’s rushing attack began to wear down the Vikings as the game progressed. The Bearcats broke off several long runs, making it difficult for Cook County to mount a comeback.

Offensively, the Vikings struggled to generate the explosive plays that had become a hallmark of their offense throughout the season. Instead, Cook County was forced to rely on more methodical drives against the Bearcats’ defense.

The Vikings will graduate several senior leaders on both sides of the ball. Junior Roland King, who anchors both the offensive and defensive lines, will be the team’s lone returning captain next season.

Josh Hinke November 13, 2026