1. Columbus
Record: 16-6-5. Was: 1. Note: One more win and the Crew wrap up the coveted Supporters Shield. Next: at Chicago, Sunday.

2. Houston
Record: 11-5-10. Was: 2. Note: Those early season struggles by the Dynamo are a thing of the past. Next: vs. D.C. United, Sunday.

3. Chivas USA
Record: 11-10-6. Was: 4. Note: Routed D.C. United on the road and are peaking at the right time. Next: at San Jose, Saturday.

4. New England
Record: 12-8-7. Was: 3. Note: Clinched playoff berth last weekend despite poor performance against RSL. Next: at Kansas City, Saturday.

5. Chicago
Record: 12-9-6. Was: 5. Note: Could've moved up the standings but settled for a draw at Kansas City. Next: vs. Columbus, Sunday.

6. Real Salt Lake
Record: 9-10-8. Was: 7. Note: Opens Rio Tinto Stadium this week in a must-win situation against New York. Next: vs. New York, Thursday.

7. Colorado
Record: 10-3-4. Was: 7. Note: Playoff hopes will likely come down to final match of the season against RSL. Next: at L.A. Galaxy, Sunday.

8. FC Dallas
Record: 8-9-10. Was: 9. Note: The Hoops have a favorable schedule down the stretch in quest to make the playoffs. Next: vs. Toronto FC, Saturday.