NWSL preparing in the next couple days to announce fall plans. At last check, it's going to be three 3-team pods, with friendlies starting Sept. 5 and running until Oct. 17.

Barring any late changes, the pods are:

1: Washington, Sky Blue, Chicago
2: Utah, OL Reign, Portland
3: North Carolina, Orlando, Houston

CBS is aboard to show 6 matches, according to a proposed NWSL schedule grid I've seen.

Washington was to have 3 home venues in 2020. With no crowds in DC, Audi Field doesn't make $ sense. Maryland SoccerPlex can't have fans either. Segra Field is allowed up to 1,000 spectators. TBD.

It's now official:

West
OL Reign
Portland Thorns
Utah Royals

Northeast
Chicago Red Stars
Sky Blue
Washington Spirit

South
North Carolina Courage
Orlando Pride
Houston Dash

Game of the Week on CBS every Saturday in September and on CBS Sports Network three Saturdays in October. CBS All Access will exclusively stream four games as well in September.

Teams will play four matches apiece: two at home, one in each of the other pod venues. Schedule tba, but Sept. 5 is first day, expected to be Sky Blue at Washington. Venue tbd.

In all, 18 matches over seven weeks, concluding Oct. 17.