Friday night prep football staff picks

David says: Picking against South St. Paul, at home, takes guts. Simley boasts explosive players such as quarterback Michael Busch and do-it-all Cole Veith. The Spartans can establish themselves as a legitimate state tournament threat with a victory. South St. Paul is my pick, however. I'm a coward.

Pick: South St. Paul 28, Simley 14

Jim says: Both teams have lost to Park of Cottage Grove: Simley by eight points at home in Week 1, South St. Paul by one on the road last week. Logic would seem to lean toward a Packers victory. But as a parent of two teenagers, I know logic and kids are often strangers. I'm going with my gut on this one.

Pick: Simley 20, South St. Paul 16

David says: When Lakeville North coach Brian Vossen kids you about picking against his team, his competitive zeal shines through and you're reminded once a linebacker, always a linebacker. Sorry, Coach, but Burnsville defeated Lakeville South last week and grinds out a Lakeville sweep Friday.

Pick: Burnsville 21, Lakeville North 14

Jim says: I underestimated Lakeville North at the start of the season. I picked against Burnsville last week. Both times, I was proven wrong. Burnsville's success hasn't been a fluke. Good defense, a relentless running game with more than one option, solid line play. Burnsville will be ready for its biggest game in years.

David says: Dominant thus far, these teams have combined to outscore opponents 161-36. Which team stays unbeaten? The quarterbacks likely will decide. Prior Lake's Jimmy Larson has thrown for 365 yards and three touchdowns, the Trojans' Jake Marsh for 262 yards and five TDs.

Pick: Prior Lake 28, Wayzata 20

Jim says: Wayzata appeared to be ridding itself of some 2014 demons by rolling up 89 points in its first two games. But both of those were at home and the Trojans haven't seen a defense the likes of Prior Lake. The Lakers are giving up just 6.5 points and 150 yards per game.