81.   Handicapping the teams still contending for playoff berths, the Mariners and Yankees are the hottest, California has been fading for a month.

82.   He sees them fighting several teams for the eighth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League.

83.   His team, after all, clinched a playoff berth in August and a division title early in September.

84.   However, a win by the Matadors should be enough for a playoff berth.

85.   Hundley played on, as the Mets pushed for a playoff berth, until finally breaking down in September and undergoing surgery.

86.   If Florida were still contending for a playoff berth, the league office might frown on the Rangers resting some regulars.

87.   If the Cowboys win their final three games, they are guaranteed a playoff berth.

88.   If Beard can get Coleman back by December and keep his other key players healthy, then the Nets could challenge for a playoff berth.

89.   If Carolina and Detroit also either lose or tie, the Giants clinch a playoff berth.

90.   If the Jets win at Miami this weekend, they clinch a playoff berth.