METRO TOP 10

Staff writer Jim Paulsen's opinions on the top prep football teams in the metropolitan area, regardless of class

1. Eden Prairie (5-0): A bye week gave the Eagles a chance to rest. Expect them to be healthy and hungry for the final three games of the regular season.

2. Rosemount (5-0): The 76 points the Irish put up against Farmington are the most by a metro team this season.

3. East Ridge (5-0): The Raptors defense has been as good as the offense, giving up just 21 points.

4. Maple Grove (5-0): Head coach Matt Lombardi made his mark as a defensive coordinator, and it showed when the Crimson beat Totino-Grace 28-0.

5. Mounds View (5-0): The Mustangs have not given up a point in nine consecutive quarters.

6. Prior Lake (4-1): After back-to-back victories over Lakeville North and Apple Valley, the Lakers close out a three-game road stretch Friday at Eagan.

7. Hutchinson (5-0): In a 56-7 rout of New Prague, Robbie Grimsley touched the ball 10 times, scored six TDs and had 320 yards of total offense.

8. Stillwater (5-0): The Ponies have taken care of business so far, but they face their biggest test Friday when they host Cretin-Derham Hall.

9. Lakeville North (4-1): There are still offensive concerns, but any victory at Eastview (14-7 Friday) is big.

10. DeLaSalle (5-0): Yes, a second 4A team. After the top five, the Islanders can compete with any team in the metro.