FC Dallas still has a clear path to a playoff bye -- here's why that's so important

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FC Dallas isn't making it easy on itself, but Oscar Pareja's men still have an obvious path to a playoff bye: Beat the Colorado Rapids in Sunday's season finale in Commerce City, Colo., and FCD will lock up the two seed. A different result could drop the team all the way to fifth.

The top two teams avoid the knockout round, sitting at home and watching as their fellow playoff rivals play must-win matches during the week. Teams three through six are in action during the week, with the winners having a quick turnaround before the first leg of the conference semifinal.

"We're aware of the opportunity we have. The players have earned the chance to fight for the position to…