The national MLS pundits have spoken — and most of them have the Colorado Rapids finishing near the bottom of the Western Conference. Predicted 12th. 13th. 14th.

But is that lazy analysis… or earned skepticism?

In Episode 4, Leo and Crash break down:

📉 The MLS Predictions

• Why the Rapids are being rated so low
• Why Marcelo Balboa giving Colorado 8th matters
• Dax McCarty’s shift in tone after preseason
• How Matt Wells is using outside doubt as fuel

🔥 4–1 Over Orlando — It Was the Manner

This wasn’t just a preseason win. It looked coached.

• Repeated quality service into the box
• Navarro finishing twice
• Yapi’s beautiful delivery and composure
• Multiple attackers on the scoresheet
• Signs of Wells’ identity starting to show

Is this preseason noise… or early proof of concept?

🎙 Press Conference Breakdown

Kevin Demoff, Pádraig Smith, and Matt Wells addressed:

• Club valuation and “earned skepticism”
• Commitment to improving the on-field product
• “Culture of No Limits”
• Leadership within the squad
• Transfer targets (CB, winger, and more)
• What Miguel Navarro’s return means

Transparency or lip service? We dig in.

🧠 On-Wax Season Predictions

Before a ball is kicked, we put it on record:

• Western Conference finish
• Rapids MVP
• Breakout young player
• Potential underperformer
• Bold take for 2026

We’ll revisit this at season’s end.

❤️ Rapids Youth Community

We close with recognition of a tragic loss within the Rapids Youth Soccer community. The soccer family is bigger than results, and we stand in support.

📺 Live Watchalong – Season Opener

Join us Sunday for our live watchalong as the Rapids kick off the 2026 season. Details on our socials.

The season starts now.

Predicted 13th. Preparing for 1st?

Up the Pids.