91.   Considered a playoff contender, the Chiefs slumped to their second losing mark in the last three years.

92.   Getting homefield advantage has been a major goal of the Chiefs since they became serious playoff contenders.

93.   If they maintain their current position, second to Denver among the playoff contenders, they would begin the playoffs at home on the first weekend in January.

94.   Mike DiFelice also homered for the Devil Rays, who have won five straight -- all against playoff contenders.

95.   Starks, who wants to be waived so he can go to a playoff contender, sat out his fourth game Saturday because of tendinitis in his right knee.

96.   With those two back, the Lightning were expected to be a playoff contender.

97.   He also had a hunger to play for a playoff contender instead of the lowly Thrashers.

98.   His success turned the Kings into a playoff contender and the league into a continental attraction.

99.   Another matchup of playoff contenders sends Buffalo to Pittsburgh on Monday.