The outskirts of the Northwest metro have become a hotbed of burgeoning softball powers, ranging from Rogers to Buffalo to Elk River, and even farther up the road, Becker.

The Bulldogs don't have the same program recognition as some of their counterparts, but the winning pedigree is there. Three straight state tournament trips and five in the past eight years are strong indicators of a competitive program. 

Becker finished sixth last season in Class 3A and fourth in 2015. The school's best finish remains third place in the Class 2A state tournament in 2008.

Elk River is a perennial power, owning two state championships, though the program hasn't been in the state tournament since its 2013 Class 3A title.

This non-conference battle between a softball blueblood in the Elks and a budding Bulldogs program serves as our pick for Top Game of the Week.

Tab over to see details on each game.