1. Columbus

Record: 15-6-5. Was: 1. Note: Victory over New England all but guarantees the Crew the best regular season record. Next: vs. L.A. Galaxy, Saturday.

2. Houston

Record: 10-5-10. Was: 2. Note: Should ultimately win the West with a four-point cushion and a game in hand. Next: at Colorado, Saturday.

3. New England

Record: 12-8-6. Was: 3. Note: Despite falling disappointingly to the Crew, the Revs are still one of the elite teams. Next: vs. Real Salt Lake, Saturday.

4. Chivas USA

Record: 10-10-6. Was: 6. Note: With back-to-back wins, the Goats are heating up and just the right time. Next: at D.C. United, Saturday.

5. Chicago

Record: 12-9-5. Was: 4. Note: Snapped a two-game skid with an easy win over the Galaxy last weekend. Next: at Kansas City, Sunday.

6. Colorado

Record: 10-12-4. Was: 8. Note: The Rapids own a 3-0-1 record since losing to RSL back in late August. Next: vs. Houston, Saturday.

7. Real Salt Lake

Record: 9-10-7. Was: 10. Note: Picked up a much-needed win on the road last weekend to keep playoff hopes alive. Next: at New England, Saturday.

8. New York

Record: 9-9-8. Was: 5. Note: Have lost two straight by surrendering a staggering eight goals. Next: vs. Toronto, Saturday.