prep picks
Staff writers Jim Paulsen and David La Vaque prognosticate about three Class 5A semifinal games on Saturday. Prognosticate is an expensive word for throwing darts. David (20-12) has enjoyed better aim than Jim (18-14).
Section 2
Chaska (7-2) at Northfield (7-1), 3 p.m.
Jim says: Northfield's move to the Big 9 Conference means few in the metro know it's had a whale of a season. The balanced Raiders will surprise Chaska with physical play.
Pick: Northfield 31, Chaska 30
David says: Northfield's past two seasons ended against Chaska. A third defeat is likely with Hawks' dual-threat quarterback Justin Arnold at the helm. He contributed 208 total yards in the semifinals.
Pick: Chaska 28, Northfield 20
Section 5
Simley (6-3) at St. Thomas Academy (6-2), 7 p.m.
Jim says: Winning playoff football takes a stout defense, depth in the running game and players who won't beat themselves with mistakes. Sounds a lot like the Cadets.
Pick: St. Thomas Academy 24, Simley 7
David says: OK, so it's been six years since Simley won at St. Thomas Academy (before losing the rematch in the playoffs). But this Spartans team has confidence and will make plays against a solid but beatable Cadets outfit.
Pick: Simley 31, St. Thomas Academy 27
Section 6
Rogers (8-1) at Elk River (6-2), 3 p.m.
Jim says: How tough is Section 6? Rogers is ranked No. 2 in Class 5A but received the No. 3 seed. Elk River's tricky straight-T offense will keep the Elks close, but the Royals can score, too.
Pick: Rogers 44, Elk River 34
David says: Sparks in the form of points fly when these teams hook up. The Elks' Class 6A-heavy schedule offers better experience, and they're playing at home. A wild game, yes, but Elk River wins.
Pick: Elk River 49, Rogers 45
