Columbus Crew 2013 MLS Playoff 4caster - Game 21

Current Playoff Outlook: Toronto-esque*

Here are the standings as of 7/28, sorted by PPG. In a must-win-but-absolutely-must-not-lose game, The Crew blew a late lead and demoted any hope of making the playoffs this year into 'anomaly' category. If you were a Project Manager in charge of this project, you'd have to ask for more time, money or resources; probably both time and money. The Crew have neither.

*Toronto FC has never made the MLS Playoffs.

Here's my breakdown of the Crew's bleak position in the race:

Season Projection

I use this as a way to predict what a team's record will be at a given point in the season. For instance, this is the first step I take when figuring out how soon DC and Toronto (and sadly, now, the Crew) will be eliminated from the playoffs.

Remember, if a number is in white, it's real. If it's green, it's a projection.

The Massive Report 4cast Challenge

So you've been reading this article, thinking to yourself, "Man, this guy is only somewhat right. If only he was completely correct, like myself." You want a shot at the title? Between now and August 2, send your predictions for:

1. Points needed for MLS East Playoffs (5th place).
2. Points the Crew will have at the end of the season.
   

Those who correctly predict either category will be mentioned... nay, PRAISED in my season wrap-up article in late October. An overall winner will be awarded the following fancy prizes:

• 1 victory beverage at Hendoc's, courtesy of Massive Report
• An appearance on the 10/28/13 Massive Report Podcast, in which you will be expected to explain why you are so awesome/smart/attractive
• Overalls

Send your picks to me via Twitter @4castnate or email (natebeckman@gmail.com). 1 pick per person, must be present at Hendoc's to drink victory beverage. Void where prohibited. Must be 18 or older to win. Must be 21 or over to consume booze at Hendoc's. No, Massive Report will not buy you booze if you're underage; you'll get a Diet Coke or something. I'll make up a tiebreaker in October if it is needed.

For the record, I've already published my predictions for the season in previous blog articles:

• 51 - Points needed for 5th place in MLS Eastern Conference
• 36 - Points the Crew will have at end of 2013 season

Who Do I Root For This Week?

Sigh... Do I even need to keep including this section?

Misery Loves Company

DC United - Historically Bad, Getting Worse
They are still the worst team in the league; I will include this statement every week it's true. As I indicated last week, DCU could make a run at being the worst team in MLS history. Their current PPG of .48 is basically even with that of current "title" holders, the 1999 Metrostars, who gained 15 points in 32 matches for a .47 PPG. If DC is going to avoid the all-time worst record, they'll need 6 points in their final 13 games. With two against Toronto and one vs. Chivas USA, you'd think they'll scrounge up 6 points.

Toronto FC
I won't rip the team this week, as they showed resolve in getting two late goals against the Crew. It looks like Ryan Nelsen will not be the first TFC coach fired in July; he still has a shot of being the first one fired in August.

Columbus Crew
The Crew are now on track to be eliminated at home vs Chicago on 9/21. Chris Rolfe is probably going to score 4 goals in that match, then burn down the Santa Maria.