MLS power rankings

1. Columbus

Record: 12-6-4. Was: 2. Note: The biggest test of the season coming up against the Revs. At least it is at home. Next: vs. New England, Saturday.

2. New England

Record: 11-6-5. Was: 1. Note: Can the defense find a way to regroup for the game-of-the-year so far? Next: at Columbus, Saturday.

3. Houston

Record: 9-5-8. Was: 3. Note: The Dynamo are showing they are the class of the West and have won 6-of-7 league games. Next: vs. Kansas City, Sunday.

4. Chicago

Record: 10-7-5. Was: 7. Note: Brian McBride has brought new life. You could say it lit a "Fire." Next: vs. New York, Saturday.

5. Real Salt Lake

Record: 8-8-6. Was: 5. Note: Can this team change its road woes? The next two are on the road. Next: at Los Angeles, Saturday.

6. DC United

Record: 10-10-2. Was: 4. Note: Couldn't find the net in New York, but a draw is a rarity for United. Next: at San Jose, Saturday.

7. New York

Record: 8-6-8. Was: 8. Note: The Red Bulls are streaking as one of hottest teams in the league. 3-0-2 in last five. Next: at Chicago, Saturday.

8. FC Dallas

Record: 6-8-8. Was: 6. Note: This club may be the most confusing in MLS. It can beat anyone, or lose to anyone. Next: vs. Colorado, Thursday.

9. Chivas

Record: 7-9-6. Was: 12. Note: How will the Champions League games affect the Goats? Next: at Toronto, Saturday.

10. Los Angeles

Record: 6-9-7. Was: 11. Note: Donovan is running away with the Golden Boot. Can the defense keep up? Next: vs. Real Salt Lake, Saturday.

11. San Jose

Record: 6-9-7. Was: 14. Note: A home win over the struggling Wizards is something to build on. Next: vs. DC United, Saturday.

12. Toronto

Record: 7-10-5. Was: 9. Note: This club still can't find a way to win a close one on the road. Next: vs. Chivas, Saturday.

13. Kansas City

Record: 6-8-8. Was: 13. Note: The Wizards are still reeling lately. They are 1-3-1 in last five. Next: at Houston, Sunday.

14. Colorado

Record: 7-12-3. Was: 10. Note: Injuries, execution, desire. You name it, Rapids are struggling with it. Next: at Dallas, Thursday.