Disagreement over the Cretin-Derham Halls Class 5A debut

David La Vaque took the lead from Zero Week early and got two of the three right, while Jim Paulsen only got one. They disagree twice this week.

East Ridge, Eden Prairie, 7 p.m.

David says: The attack on the Eden Prairs is an unproven commodity, and the visiting Raptors are strongly defending. Choose East Ridge in a tight game? It’s attractive. Until you consider the Eagles ’historically solid defense. The pressure is on East Ridge to show offensive ability on the road. Care about: Eden Prairie 21, East Ridge 14

Jim says: No opponent East Ridge coach Dan Fritze would like to see the Raptors break largely from an inexperienced crime. Eden Prairie is in the same boat, but the Eagles always have talent they can hook up and play with. And at home they are pretty locks. Care about: Eden Prairie 23, East Ridge 7

Centennial in Stillwater, 7 p.m.

David says: Centennial’s winning formula for the season opener requires a solid defense to keep things close as the attack jumps. To that end, Stillwater is the perfect opponent, given that the quarterback and the opponent are new entrants. Care about: Centennial 28, Stillwater 21

Jim says: Stillwater has confused me for a long time. It’s a program that looks like it should be a multi-year competitor. Centennial has ended the Pony season in the post-season for two years in a row and always reaches its peak near the end. If Stillwater is going to get a refund, now is the time. Care about: Stillwater 21, Centennial 20

Spring Lake Park at Cretin-Derham Hall, 7pm at Sea Foam Stadium

David says: Class 5A State Tournament Preview? Cretin-Derham Hall joins the lightweight heavyweight division, where Spring Lake Park has represented itself well over the past decade. Regardless of Thursday’s outcome, expect both programs to grow as the season progresses. Care about: Spring Lake Park 30, Cretin-Derham Hall 28

Jim says: I agree that CDH quickly realizes that there is little difference in the level of play in 5A, but the Raiders are ready. Much attention has been paid to their departure from Class 6A, and their 1-6 marks a year ago are still ticking. And they have Tre Holloman. Care about: Cretin-Derham Hall 34, Spring Lake Park 27