I have to step things up this week after going 7-5 last week. So I’m not going to waste any time with a clever intro and get straight to the picks.

Friday
Lapeer West (1-1) at Oxford (2-0) — The Wildcats take a big step towards a Flint Metro title. Pick: Oxford

Waterford Mott (2-0) at Walled Lake Western (1-1) — The Warriors will kick off KLAA North play with a victory. Pick: Western

Howell (2-0) at Milford (2-0) — I’ve picked against the Mavericks two weeks in a row and they have won both times. Let’s make it three. Pick: Howell

GAME OF THE WEEK
Clarkston (1-1) at Troy (2-0) — Whoever is working the scoreboard at Troy is going to earn their paycheck tonight. These two teams could combine for over 90 points. Pick: Clarkston

Southfield-Lathrup (1-1) at Troy Athens (0-2) — The Red Hawks’ defense has struggled this season and the Chargers won’t make things any easier for them. Pick: Lathrup

South Lyon (1-1) at Northville (2-0) — The Lions will have their hands full with Northville. Pick: Northville

Lake Orion (1-1) at Oak Park (1-1) — The winner of this game will be a strong contender for OAA Red title. Pick: Lake Orion

Royal Oak (0-2) at West Bloomfield (1-1) — The Lakers are always tough at home. Pick: West Bloomfield.

Birmingham Groves (1-1) at Rochester (0-2) — Rochester will pick up its first W. Pick: Rochester

Birmingham Seaholm (0-2) at Stoney Creek (1-1) — The Maples need a win tonight or will have to run the table to make the playoffs. Pick: Stoney Creek

Southfield (2-0) at Farmington Hills Harrison (2-0) — The Bluejays can really establish themselves with a win over the Hawks. Pick: Harrison

Saturday
Rochester Hills Lutheran Northwest (2-0) at Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (0-2) — The Crusaders look like they have turned things around this season. Pick: Northwest

Season record: 13-9 Last week: 7-5