Staff picks: Saturday's prep football playoffs

Going into Friday's games, Jim held a lead with a 19-15 record, while David was right behind at 17-17.

Jim says: I've picked against Glencoe-Silver Lake four times in two years and lost all four. So I'm a bonehead to do it again, right? Marshall has scored at least 40 points in every game and can move the ball against anybody. Gotta get it right sometime.

Pick: Marshall 30, Glencoe-Silver Lake 26.

David says: Fantastic matchup of top-10 teams in Class 4A goes the Panthers' way. Marshall puts up gaudy statistics nearly every year but hasn't reached state since 1991. The proven Panthers won five state titles in that same span.

Jim says: Chaska is one of the surprise teams of the year, but Chanhassen won four of its last five for a share of the Missota crown. If RB Nathan Johnson's knee allows him to play, the Storm have an imposing running game. Jared Lea is the wild card, a tall, rangy WR who keeps defenses honest.

Pick: Chanhassen 24, Chaska 14.

David says: Chaska's six victories are its most since 1992. If the Hawks want to keep the good times rolling, they need their offense to do likewise. An inability to complete drives cost them in a 18-7 loss to the Storm in Week 2. The feeling here is Chaska will finish.

Jim says: I witnessed Elk River pull off a shocker over Rogers two years ago. The Elks have since weathered a season in the Northwest Suburban and won't be intimidated. Their sleight-of-hand offense can give opponents fits. The Elks will need to play with discipline.

Pick: Elk River 20, Rogers 17.

David says: The co-Mississippi 8 Conference champions might not impress anyone getting off the bus, but the smallish Royals pack a punch. Their strong rushing attack, stout defense and unselfish attitudes make for a winning playoff formula.