Saturday section playoff football staff 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).

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

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

Pick: Simley 31, St. Thomas Academy 27

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.