David won two of three last week, improving to 11-11, while Jim fell to 14-8. David has the home team in all three games this week, giving him a fighting chance of closing the gap even further.

Blaine (3-2) at Champlin Park (3-2), 7 p.m.

Jim says: Blaine bounced back from a two-game losing streak (explained by 10 turnovers) with a comfortable victory over Coon Rapids. In their past eight meetings, each team has won four. A victory here would make it four in a row for the Bengals.

Pick: Blaine 30, Champlin Park 27

David says: Winners of three consecutive games -- including a fourth-quarter comeback at Centennial last week -- Champlin Park is looking more like the top-10 team it was projected to be this season. The Rebels offense is hitting its stride.

Pick: Champlin Park 28, Blaine 14

Eastview (3-2) at Apple Valley (4-1), 7 p.m.

Jim says: This game is being hyped as the Apple Valley city championship -- "The Battle for the Apple." Eastview's two losses -- to Wayzata and Lakeville North-- are understandable. The Lightning has won four in a row in this series, all shutouts. The Eagles will score, but the streak continues.

Pick: Eastview 21, Apple Valley 7

David says: How do you like these apples? The core of the matter is that this is one of the best Eagles teams in years. It would like nothing more than to ensure that the east side of Galaxie Avenue is the losing side. The call here is that Apple Valley grows up in a tight game.

Pick: Apple Valley 14, Eastview 13

Becker (5-0) at Glencoe-Silver Lake (4-1), 7 p.m.

Jim says: Becker likes to throw the ball around while Glencoe-Silver Lake prefers to keep it on the ground. The Bulldogs' weapons -- QB Tommy Benson, WRs Brett Watercott and Joel Hopkins and RB Eric Dudek -- will pose problems for the Panthers.

Pick: Becker 31, Glencoe-Silver Lake 26

David says: The Panthers defense created five turnovers last week in a 28-20 victory over Litchfield. Another strong performance pushes them past Becker and firmly into the discussion of Class 4A title contenders.

Pick: Glencoe-Silver Lake 20, Becker 13