Staff writers Jim Paulsen and David La Vaque trade insights on day two of the football state semifinals at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Class 6A
eden prairie (10-1) vs. champlin park (8-3), 7 p.m.
Jim says: Champlin Park's had a great run, but defeating Eden Prairie is a different challenge altogether. And the Rebels, due to injuries, are down to their third QB. The Rebels will have their moments, but the Eagles will have many more.
Pick: Eden Prairie 38, Champlin Park 14
David says: Eden Prairie is in dominating November form. The ground game is clicking and top athletes on defense are making key contributions on offense. Last week the Eagles used a trick play, answering a surprise Maple Grove onside kick with one of their own.
Pick: Eden Prairie 42, Champlin Park 7
Class 4A
winona (10-1) vs. rocori (9-3), 4:30 p.m.
Jim says: Size matters and Winona, despite being a state tournament newbie, is the bigger, stronger team. Rocori is making its third straight tourney appearance but stopping the Winhawks' freight train when it gets rolling is a tall order.
Pick: Winona 24, Rocori 21
David says: Winona defeated South St. Paul in power football in the quarterfinals. The Winhawks, making their first state appearance since 1987, feature four running backs with more than 400 yards and each average at least 5 yards per carry.
