2012 MLS Cup Playoffs: Conference Championships

Went 2-2 in my semifinal predictions, which isn't bad considering the craziness that occurred with weather relocations, delays, red cards galore, and plenty of late-game drama. 
Should set up for an amazing conference championship series. First year MLS has gone to a two-legged series, instead of a winner-take-all, so all teams will have a chance to play one last home game before the MLS Cup.

Eastern Conference
(5) Houston Dynamo vs. (2) DC United
Leg 1 @ HOU: Today 3 PM CT NBCSN
Leg 2 @ DC: Next Sunday 3 PM CT NBCSN

My Dynamo just have Sporting KC's number, and frustrated them into blaming the referees (I'm talking about you, Peter Vermes) for getting thoroughly outplayed in leg 1 in Houston. Although they put up a valiant effort in the second leg, ultimately the Dynamo's two-goal cushion was two much to overcome. Meanwhile, DC had to endure a venue location swap with the Red Bulls because of Hurricane Sandy, as well as a snowstorm which postponed Leg 2 for a day. When all the craziness and red cards (Andy Najar, Bill Hamid, Rafa Marquez) finally ended, United got a series clinching goal from Nick De Leon to oust NYRB. 
DC looks like a team of destiny, as it has advanced this far even without Dwayne De Rosario, and finishing both games against NY with 10 men. They'll have to overcome more adversity in this series, as they will play the whole series without Najar (who is suspended) as well as the first leg without the services of star goalie Bill Hamid.
In the end, I think my Dynamo are the better team, with a hot striker in Will Bruin, and more playmakers in Oscar Boniek Garcia and Brad Davis. Houston advances.

Western Conference
(4) Los Angeles Galaxy vs. (3) Seattle Sounders
Leg 1 @ LA: Tonight 8 PM CT ESPN
Leg 2 @ SEA: Next Sunday 8 PM CT ESPN

What a setup in the west, with the defending champion Galaxy (which knocked out rival San Jose) taking on the Sounders (who are coming off their first ever playoff series win). Loads of fire power on both sides with David Beckham, Landon Donovan, Mike Magee, and a red hot Robbie Keane for the Galaxy, while the Sounders have Fredy Montero, Eddie Johnson, and Mauro Rosales. I think it comes down to the goalkeeping and defense, and Seattle's back four, along with Michael Gspurning is a lot better at the moment. I'll take the Sounders.