This week's podcast covers SKC's 1-0 win over the Houston Dynamo, a huge match on Saturday in Portland, as well as a USA vs Mexico discussion.

Graham Smith has stepped up when this team needed it the most. He's solidified the back line during a string of wins by one-goal margins and provided help on the attacking end as well. Ilie Sanchez has been getting a break recently, starting on the bench with Gutierrez in his spot. Why has this been working so well?

Many have tried to replace Seth Sinovic, and Luis Martins is next in line to attempt it. He has been improving every game and the Sporting Kansas City win over the Dynamo was his best yet. Can he hold that spot down?

Of course, with the biggest game of the year coming up against the Portland Timbers, Sporting will be without six players. Felipe Gutierrez and Johnny Russell will have the biggest impact. What will this mean for Peter Vermes' lineup. and can they still pull out a win to go level with the Timbers?

It's time for the United States Men's National Team to get back in action, and for the first time in a very long time, we aren't entirely disappointed in the selection. In the absence of Michael Bradley, Alfredo Morales is back in the mix much to the surprise of Cody. But the young guys have a chance to impress against Mexico and Uruguay. Might we see someone like Sergino Dest solidify himself with the Yanks?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices