MLS Week 1 Thoughts

By the end of this weekend, 16 teams will have played in their first MLS games of the 2012 season.  There are abundant story lines that i will be keeping an eye on.  There are plenty of off the field stories that will provide plenty of discussion points, but obviously, the on field action will make all of the headlines.  After the jump, look at the games, leave your predictions in the comments or tell me any story lines that i may have missed..


Colorado v Columbus
The main thing that interests me in this game is that it is first.  It kicks off at 6:00 pm.  I see the Pareja era starting off with a win.
Colorado 2 - Columbus 0

Vancouver v Montreal
The newest franchise in MLS kicks things off with the first of many "battles of canada".  Despite the adrenaline that will be present, i think that the new fire power of vancouver will be too much to for the montreal.
Van 1 - Mont 0

DC v KC
DC always seems ambitious.  Ben Olsen will be under tremendous pressure to get results this year.  However, KC will be too much to handle on day 1.  KC has put together a tough and well balanced team.  They are no strangers to starting on the road.  I think they will come out with a lot of confidence and open the season with a win.
DC 1 - KC 2

LA v RSL
This game is an early season battle between two of the best the MLS has to offer.  It is an easy game for LA to look past, but their coach and veteran leadership will not allow that.  RSL will also want to make sure that they make a strong statement against everyone's preseason favorite.  This game looks to be a well played, competitive affair.  I see a draw
LA 1 - RSL 1

San Jose v New England
This will mark the beginning of what could be a long and frustrating campaign for former Duke Hoopster Jay Heaps.  I think the stability at San Jose leads them to an opening day win
SJ 2 - NE 0

FCD v NYRB
The debut of MLS on NBC.  I look forward to this game with great anticipation.  NYRB will have moments where the offense looks smooth and efficient, but their new central defense partner will have to be learn quickly on the job.  A road win may be too much to ask for the Red Bulls
FCD 1 - NYRB 1

Chivas v Houston   
Houston's long road trip to start the season has begun.  Last year's MLS finalists begin their campaign against Chivas, a team that always seems to be in flux.  Kinnear always has an organized and efficient team.  There is no reason to believe this year will be different.
Chivas 1 - Houston 2

Portland v Phil
The MLS on ESPN debuts with this Monday night clash.  Second year Portland Timbers will host the young Philly Union.  Portland's new DP, Kris Boyd, will be trying to make an early statement.  Philly will be trying to prove that losing LeToux has not left their attack toothless.  This match has draw written all over it.
Port 1 - Phil 1