In 2015, the Portland Timbers entered MLS Cup on even ground, with both them and the host team, Columbus Crew SC, having had to fight their conference brackets’ long odds. The club’s first star on the men’s side didn’t come from a David-and-Goliath battle. Two Davids took the field in Ohio.
Read any preview, watch any panel, listen to the Timbers’ player interviews, and you’ll know: 2018 is different. As we mentioned before, Atlanta United FC have earned the right to be considered favorites. That so few are picking Portland reflects the reality of this MLS Cup’s world.