Predictions for this week’s biggest games in the East Metro
East Ridge (3-2) at Forest Lake (5-0), 7 p.m.
The Rangers have allowed a grand total of three points combined over their last three contests. East Ridge has relied heavily on the ground game since losing quarterback Cedric Tomes to injury. But it’s difficult to envision a one-track offensive approach working against this Forest Lake front.
How long can East Ridge’s defense keep the Raptors in the game?
Our pick: Forest Lake 28, East Ridge 6
Mounds View (2-3) at Woodbury (3-2), 7 p.m.
Both of these teams are 1-1 in Metro East subdistrict play, but with the way the section is shaping up, either could be in position to grab a No. 2 seed in the Class 6A playoffs with a win Friday, creating a viable path to state in the process.
Whoever establishes more offensive balance figures to have the edge
Our pick: Mounds View 24, Woodbury 17
White Bear Lake (2-3) at Stillwater (2-3), 7 p.m.
Two major injuries suffered two weeks ago in a big win over Mounds View have altered the Ponies’ season, as quarterback Jack Runk suffered a knee injury and running back Emilio Rosario-Matias also went down.
Can the Ponies find new ways to move the ball on the fly over the back half of the regular season? They figure to lean heavily on running back Chase Edstrom and receiver Carter Zollar.
Stillwater: 22, White Bear Lake 20
Lakeville South (4-1) at Edina (3-2), 7 p.m.
This game carries the distinct look and feel of a second-round playoff game in Class 6A. Chicago Blackhawks first-round pick Mason West has thrown for 10 touchdowns for Edina.
West will need a big game to keep up with a Cougars rushing attack finding its stride.
Our pick: Lakeville South 23, Edina 20
River Falls (5-1) at Rice Lake (6-0), 7 p.m.
Both sides are coming off massive victories — River Falls hung 44 on Hudson, while Rice Lake edged New Richmond — that muddled the Big Rivers Conference title hunt and made this bout a key fixture in that equation.
The Warriors will move the ball. Can they prevent River Falls from doing the same?
Our pick: Rice Lake 27, River Falls 19
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