The Dynamo became one of MLS' feel-good stories early this season when their high-flying pedal-to-the-metal style netted them six early home victories and a spot near the top of the Western Conference Standings.
Since that stirring start, however, their progress has slowed considerably. Some might even argue the Dynamo are driving in reverse after yet another road loss Saturday dropped them below the playoff line for the first time this year.
They are no longer the happy-go-lucky Dynamo. They are the back-against-the-wall Dynamo.
"We need to give more. We need to produce more," coach Wilmer Cabrera said after Saturday's 1-0 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes.