Midweek Predictions again, finally

OK, so it's been a while since I made predictions (Week 7 I think), but as we sit here in week 25, I think it's time to start up again as the road to the playoffs heats up. Every club is still alive for a berth in the 2006 MLS Cup Playoffs, which will start at the end of October.

Colorado Rapids: Chicago Fire
Invesco Field at Mile High, Denver, CO

Chicago won the first meeting 1-0 in Bridgeview, but has not won in Colorado in 5 years. With the Fire riding an 8-game unbeaten streak (7-0-1, 4-0-1 in League Play), the Rapids need this game a lot more than the Fire do. Chicago has a 4-point cusion in 2nd place in the East, and can clinch a playoff berth this week with a Columbus win and a win against Colorado and DC on Sunday. I'm not sure I can see Fire dropping this one, but wouldn't be surprised. I'm calling a 1-0 win.

Prediction: Fire

FC Dallas:Chivas USA
Pizza Hut Park, Frisco, TX

The final meeting of the season between C-USA and FCD could go either way as both teams are playing well and have split their season series 1-1-1. Chivas has had a slightly better series of results in league play recently, and are coming off last week's draw in Carson. I'm leaning towards a tie, but I'm going to pick Dallas to lock up a playoff spot at home.

Prediction: FCD

New England Revolution: DC United
Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

United looked like a juggernaut in the beginning of the season, steamrolling teams and with their sights set on a domestic treble. Now, United is looking very beatable. While United have already clinched a playoff spot, they are only 2-2-5 since the All-Star break. New England on the other hand, is in the playoff fight of their life with 6 games to play. New England almost always turns it on late in the season, so I'm calling a 2-1 win for the Revs.