Week 4 prep football staff picks

Any sense of smugness dissipated as Jim and David posted 2-4 marks picking last week's games. Jim's oh-fer on Friday had him particularly sullen. The duo remain tied for the season at 7-5. Will either get hot this week?

Jim says: Holy Angels has not lost a regular-season game since Oct. 16, 2013, a span of 11 in a row. But I've been very impressed by Orono's relentless no-huddle offense. The Spartans are averaging nearly 400 total yards and 44 points per game.

Pick: Orono 30, Holy Angels 21

David says: Both teams face their stiffest competition to date this season. And while three games is a small sample size, Orono's six second-half points allowed is impressive. The defense keeps the Spartans undefeated.

Pick: Orono 21, Holy Angels 13

Jim says: Maple Grove is very good and getting better. The Crimson gave Eden Prairie all it could handle in a 13-7 loss in the 2014 Class 6A semifinals. But, seriously, can anyone pick against Eden Prairie at home right now and keep a straight face?

Pick: Eden Prairie 36, Maple Grove 16

Pick: Eden Prairie 30, Maple Grove 14

Jim says: These teams have played four times since 2012 and three times the home team lost (one of the game was at the Metrodome). Osseo has more playmakers, which makes a difference. The streak continues.

Pick: Osseo 24, Totino-Grace 20

David says: An opening-week shellacking by Eden Prairie dropped Totino-Grace a bit out of view. But I'm not fooled. Year after year, Eagles teams regroup and evolve and become a force. They will find a way to beat a solid Osseo team.