Cook County Vikings football team is state-bound

The Cook County Vikings football team advanced to the state tournament with a 29-12 victory over the Littlefork-Big Falls Vikings. Depending on tournament seeding, the Vikings will travel to either Moorhead or Grand Rapids for the quarterfinals on Nov. 6.

Cook County played without its regular starting quarterback, Nick Spry, who injured his shoulder in the previous game. Spry still served as the team’s placekicker. The game began on a rough note for the Vikings, as mishandled snaps backed them up deep in their own territory. Littlefork-Big Falls scored on its opening possession to take a 6-0 lead.

The Vikings responded with a long scoring drive of their own, capped by a touchdown reception from Anthony Waver. Cook County’s defense then made an impressive red zone stop in the second quarter, forcing a turnover on downs. The Vikings closed out the half with a scoring drive, as quarterback Macoy Fairbanks ran the ball into the end zone.

Cook County extended its lead early in the second half with an opening touchdown drive, and Fairbanks put the game out of reach with an 85-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Littlefork-Big Falls scored late, but after a failed onside kick, the Vikings sealed the win.

Cook County’s quarterfinal opponent had not been determined. WTIP will air the game live Thursday.

Josh Hinke October 31, 2025