Football season came early this year but staff writer Jim Paulsen wasn't fazed. His 3-0 start brought an early-season edge over David La Vaque (2-1), who must respond. High school teams that suffered a setback last week will aim to bounce back as well. A little incentive should make for some good Week 2 football.
Burnsville (1-0) at Lakeville South (0-1), 7 p.m.
David says: Burnsville's ground game dominated last week as eight runners contributed to team totals of 48 carries, 270 yards and all four Blaze touchdowns. A program hoping to assert itself, Burnsville will muscle its way toward another victory and greater recognition.
Pick: Burnsville 27, Lakeville South 14
Jim says: I've had a man-crush on Burnsville all preseason, but I've got an equally high opinion of Lakeville South's chances this year. The Cougars are feeling a little salty after losing to Cretin-Derham Hall. I expect them to scratch out a close victory in their home opener.
Pick: Lakeville South 21, Burnsville 14
Prior Lake (1-0) at Minnetonka (1-0), 7 p.m.
David says: Trailing at halftime at Centennial last week, Prior Lake took control with 28 unanswered second-half points. Quarterback Jimmy Larson shook off a pick-six interception to finish 13-for-17 with 181 yards and two scores. Such moxie will serve the Lakers well this week.
Pick: Prior Lake 21, Minnetonka 13
Jim says: Minnetonka's Skippers showed plenty of defensive grit in an 8-6 victory at Centennial. Defense, however, is Prior Lake's forte. And this year, the Lakers appear to have an offense to match. That balance tips the scales in the Lakers' favor.
