Season format The season began on April 7 and concluded with
MLS Cup on October 21. The 12 teams were split into three divisions. Each team was to play 28 games that were evenly divided between home and away. Each team would play every other team in their division four times, for a total of 12 games. The remaining schedule consisted of three games against four select opponents in one of the other divisions, and two games against the remaining four teams. The eight teams with the most points per game qualified for the
MLS Cup Playoffs. The quarterfinals and semifinals were played as a best-of-three series, and the winners advanced to
MLS Cup. In all rounds, draws were broken by penalty shootout if necessary. The
away goals rule was not used in any round. The team with the most points in the regular season was awarded the
MLS Supporters' Shield. The winner of
MLS Cup, and the runner-up, qualified for the
CONCACAF Champions' Cup.
Stadiums and locations Personnel and sponsorships Coaching changes ==Standings==