Staff writers David La Vaque and Jim Paulsen are six weeks into trying to predict winners of high school football games, and they head into Week 7 with nothing at all decided. Each went 1-2 last week, making Jim 13-8 and David 12-9. They disagree on two of the three games in play this week.
Their Week 7 picks and analysis:
Maple Grove Crimson (6-0) at St. Michael-Albertville Knights (3-3), 7 p.m.
Jim says: While so many others atop the Class 6A rankings have been knocking each other off, Maple Grove has maintained its established course: winning. They haven't all been blowouts — last week required a rally from a 14-point deficit to beat Wayzata — but the Crimson are finding ways to get the job done, and that's what matters. The pick: Maple Grove 34, St. Michael-Albertville 24
David says: St. Michael-Albertville is back to playing 48 minutes of good football. The Knights have won two in a row, coming from behind in the second half each time. QB Colton Demarais and RBs Ryan Kaydea and Conner Luongvan provide capable offense by committee. Expect a close game but not an upset. The pick: Maple Grove 28, St. Michael-Albertville 21
Minnetonka Skippers (4-2) at Centennial Cougars (4-2), 7 p.m.
Jim says: Has Minnetonka quarterback Milos Spasojevic plateaued? After a strong start, he's thrown for less than 100 yards in two of the Skippers' past three games. Centennial quarterback Daylen Cummings is best at running the Cougars' read-option, but he has shown enough improvement as a passer to make opponents notice. The pick: Centennial 22, Minnetonka 21
David says: Minnetonka coach Mark Esch, now in his third season, is building a program to reach the level of success he achieved at Mankato West, winning Prep Bowl titles in 2008 and 2014. The Skippers are getting closer. Beating an improving, physical Centennial team would provide confidence as the playoffs approach. The pick: Minnetonka 24, Centennial 19
