Filed under: MLS, Colorado Rapids, Columbus Crew, FC Dallas, Los Angeles Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders FC
Since Major League Soccer dumbed down its playoff format in 2003, it's been understood that getting hot as the postseason approaches can be just as important as having the better record.
The results indicate as much. In each of the past two years, and in three of the past five, the eighth seed has advanced to the MLS Cup Final (and won it twice). The playoffs begin early for the teams that squeak in at the end, and that must-win mindset continues through the ludicrously abbreviated postseason tournament.
Which is why this year presents such an interesting proposition for three playoff-bound clubs. In 2010, as all the ridiculous aspects of the MLS Cup playoff format combine in a perfect storm of annoyance, the Seattle Sounders, Colorado Rapids and San Jose Earthquakes must balance momentum with the reality that they're probably better off losing their respective season finales.
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