Three Keys to the Game: Timbers vs. Rapids

Here are my personal three biggest keys to the Rapids getting the W and starting their season out on the right note. 

In their first ever MLS match, you know that Portland, while the weaker team of the two – are going to be very motivated to get their MLS careers started on a high note. The Rapids can prevent that simply by playing their style of football as they always know how to and keeping Portland's potent midfield out of the equation. If the Rapids sit back or underestimate their opponent, Portland has a very good chance of coming out quickly and surprising them early in the game.

Colorado just has a different air about them – pun intended – when they're at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Whether it was the atmosphere of the crowd or just the atmosphere in general that was doing it, they have to keep that magic going this year. If the home field advantage is the only thing that gives Colorado the edge over Portland today, so be it.

This could probably be a key to the game every single week, actually. In a team that is basically built around stealing the ball in the midfield, getting it out wide and getting service into the box for the two up top, the goals will need to come. Come they will, but against weaker teams like Portland it will be essential to pile them on.