Shimano XT PD-M785 Pedals - for Cyclocross

As a longtime Crank Brothers Eggbeater pedal user (for road, MTB and cyclocross); I am considering making a switch to Shimano SPD pedals for cyclocross. The reason being that on race starts, I can't clip in on my left foot in time to stay with the pack.

Does anyone use the "trail version" (with outer cage) Shimano XT PD-M785 pedals for cyclocross? http://www.shimano.com/publish/content/global_cycle/en/us/index/pro...

If so how will they compare to my 20 year old (but indestructible) PD-M747 's or to the seemingly current favorite choice for pros the PD-M770 (or exact same version PD-M540 & PD-M970 just with different finishes)? I have heard that the newest PD-M780 / PD-980 versions have a better contact area, but don't shed mud as well. Would I have the same problem shedding mud with the PD-M785's I can't tell if this version is based on the standard 770 or 780 versions.