Behind a defense putting up numbers not seen in MLS for a decade, Columbus is cementing itself as a true title contender and tops this week's edition of Power Rankings. At the other end of the spectrum, Atlanta is looking for something positive amid the storm clouds stretching across Georgia.
1. Columbus Crew
Previous ranking: 3
Next MLS match: Saturday at Chicago, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+
Columbus has a five-point gap to its closest challengers in the Supporters' Shield race, a 99% chance of reaching playoffs (according to FiveThirtyEight's Soccer Power Index) and its defensive record through 10 matches (two goals conceded, eight clean sheets) is unmatched in MLS since the Galaxy in 2010.