Sports : Huge third quarter plays propel Vikes to 41-3 Homecoming rout

Viking blockers pave the way for a Kelyn Rickels touchdown.

Kelyn Rickels led the Vikiings in rushing and scored four times.

VSHS Band members performed their Hawaiian-based routine at halftime.

Liz Fischer bangs the gong during the VSHS Band halftime performance.

Cub Scouts were distracted by the camera as they saluted the flag during the National Anthem.

Scouts and veterans honored America and its flag during the Homecoming game National Anthem.

VSHS cheerleaders and players honor the flag during the National Anthem.

A long run, two long passes, and two early second-half turnovers helped the Vinton-Shellsburg Vikings turn what had been a fairly close, low-scoring contest into a 41-3 victory over Independence.

Ahead 15-3 at halftime, the Vikings scored first in the third quarter on a 61-yard run by Kelyn Rickels. The Mustangs fumbled on their next possession and the Vikings recovered. Another Independence fumble, followed by a long pass from QB Grant Sagan to Tanner Spies -- who would have scored if not for an illegal horse collar tackle -- put the ball on the Mustang two. Rickels carried the ball into the end zone; less than to minutes into the second half the lead was suddenly 28-3. Two more touchdowns, including a 73-yard touchdown pass from Grant Sagan to Max Kearns, put the game out of reach in the third quarter.

The Vikings led 41-3 at the beginning of the final quarter, when the Mercy Rule, with the clock continuing to run after every play, went into effect. The score remained at 41-3 when the final buzzer sounded and the Vikings rushed to ring the Victory Bell.

The Vikings are now 3-2 overall and 2-1 in district play heading into next Friday’s game at unbeaten Decorah.

See complete stats HERE.