Why the Rapids Won't Make the Playoffs

An article in today's Denver Post looks at the road ahead for the Colorado Rapids. In doing so, it points to the reason why a bet against the Rapids making the playoffs isn't the worst one could make. Here's how it works...

Take this paragraph:

"The Rapids, who have won just twice in their past eight games, have six games remaining - two at home. Colorado is on the road again Saturday against the Los Angeles Galaxy in what could be a huge game in terms of playoff implications."

Then stop by the standings on Major League Soccer's website where you'll find the Rapids road record: listed by wins, losses and draws, it's 2-8-2.

That's not to say there's no silver lining or no wiggle room for Colorado. One of those two road wins came against the LA Galaxy, the same team they'll face on the road this Saturday (the other came against Real Salt Lake). They've also got a game in hand over the two teams behind them in the standings - again, the LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake. Still, the Rapids have a lot of road ahead of them and they don't like the road much. And they can't look to goal differential for a boost, either; their -11 tally comes second only to the Columbus Crew. Yikes.

So, call this one my marker. It says here the Rapids will miss the playoffs this season. One of the two teams behind them - and I'm pulling for Real Salt Lake - pips them for it.

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