‘Hurts … really bad’ — Vikings come up short against Rams in thriller of a state title game

MARK NELKE/Press Coeur d'Alene junior Kai Wheeler looks back as he races to the end zone to complete an 84-yard scoring pass from Joe Hagel in the first quarter against Highland at Holt Arena in Pocatello.

MARK NELKE/Press Tucker Booth of Coeur d'Alene forces a fumble from Highland quarterback Drew Hymas during the first half Saturday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.

MARK NELKE/Press Coeur d'Alene sophomore quarterback Caden Symons throws on the run while pursued by Kody Hite (25) and Markell Bowens (33) of Highland on Saturday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.

MARK NELKE/Press Coeur d'Alene senior Joe Hagel (2) hauls in a pass on the run as Kannon Kunz (2) of Highland pursues Saturday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.

MARK NELKE/Press Coeur d'Alene High football coach Shawn Amos, left, hugs Viking senior Shea Robertson, as senior Tanner Ackley holds the second-place trophy after Coeur d'Alene lost to Highland 35-28 in the state 5A championship football game Saturday at Holt Arena in Pocatello.