Another weekend of MLS action means another edition of our MLS Data Power Rankings. If you're unfamiliar, we use a data-based model to create these rankings and hopefully give a more holistic view of how teams are actually performing.
Overall Performance Index
Our power rankings are solely created by a data-based model we've pretentiously labeled "the Overall Performance Index" (OPI). This new model includes the same factors as the prior edition (points per game, strength of schedule, goal difference and expected goal difference), while adding several other factors to give a more rounded picture. Here's how the model is calculated (click here for a more in-depth explanation):
1. Points per game – 25%
2. Goals Added – 15%
3. Form (last four matches) – 15%
4. Goal difference – 13%
5. Strength of schedule – 10%
6. Expected goal difference – 10%
7. Home and away form – 12%
Let's dive in!
Vancouver Whitecaps stay on top for another successive week. At this point, they're playing some of the best soccer we've seen in MLS and have the highest power rankings score since this model started in 2019. They took care of business at home against Real Salt Lake, and haven't lost in 10 matches in all competitions. This team is incredible.
Philadelphia Union are towards the top once again after their 2-1 road win against CF Montreal. They've won three in a row amidst a continuing breakout from Danley Jean Jacques. Columbus Crew also make a jump into third place after their 4-2 win over Charlotte FC, who drop a spot into fifth.
San Jose Earthquakes move into seventh after their demolition of Portland Timbers. Certainly they have one of the leakiest defenses in MLS, but they're absolutely electric at the other end. They've also played the 10th-toughest schedule so far, giving them extra points in this model.
And back in the top 10? The Seattle Sounders. They stormed past St. Louis City at home. They're putting up fantastic defensive numbers - only Vancouver have allowed fewer expected goals against - and have played the third-toughest schedule yet. They've been banged up all season, but as players start returning, don't be surprised to see a typical Seattle resurgence from Brian Schmetzer's side.
Check back next week for another update.
