Five Liga MX clubs in bottom 10 within a point of 8th place
9. Morelia (+3)
The Monarcas was a semifinalist last season but staggered out of the gate. Three wins in the past four games have the Michoacán-based club knocking on the Liguilla door.
10. Pachuca (-2)
The Tuzos are a tough team to pigeonhole. They looked magnificent against Santos in a 1-0 win then stank it up against Tijuana, one of the worst teams in Liga MX. Their schedule is quite soft from here on out, so they certainly can’t be counted out.
11. Querétaro (-4)
After an early 3-game win streak, the Gallos Blancos have gone 1-2-3 and are winless since Matchday 6. Coach Víctor Manuel Vucetich has his work cut out for him, but he has done more with less in the past.
12. Puebla (+2)
The Camoteros have the fewest goals in Liga MX (7 through 10 games), but four consecutive shut-outs has the team in playoff contention. Their 7 goals allowed is also a league-low.
13. Atlético San Luis (-3)
The Tuneros were in 6th place after Matchday 7, but have not won since. It’s likely they are still adjusting to coach Memo Vázquez’s tactics, but when the offence clicks, they are fun to watch.
14. Necaxa (-1)
The Rayos are fading out of contention, losing twice since their stunning 3-0 win over América. Of course, Necaxa was helped by a minute 16 red card to Aguilas defender Bruno Valdez. Other than striker Mauro Quiroga, this team is just simply short on talent.
15. Tijuana (+1)
The Xolos have been a major disappointment, earning only their second win of the season last weekend. The only reason they are not lower is that they have advanced to the Copa MX Final and that gives them a modest bump.
16. Toluca (-1)
The Diablos were knocked out of the Cup by Tijuana last week then suffered a humiliating home loss to Atlas on the weekend. Coach José Manuel de la Torre is running out of time.
17. Atlas (+1)
The Zorros rebounded from a tough loss to the Chivas in the Clásico Tapatío with a season-saving road win at Toluca. Even so, this remains a rebuilding season for Atlas.
18. Monterrey (-1)
The defending champs are still without a win in Liga MX, but they did squeak past FC Juárez to reach the Copa MX Final. That’s little consolation for Rayados fans who have every reason to grouse about this club’s extended hangover after hoisting the Apertura 2019 trophy in late December.