Ed Zurga, The Associated Press)
THREE UP
1. Chiefs: Carry 10-game winning streak into playoffs. QB Alex Smith has 9 TDs and 0 INTs in three career playoff games, all wins.
2. Seahawks: Welcome back RB Marshawn Lynch in Minnesota conditions more suited for the Iditarod. Lynch averages 92 rushing yards per game in the postseason.
3. Panthers: Carolina lost one game, but hasn’t lost its favored status in the NFC. QB Cam Newton deserves MVP honors. The key is the defense regaining its groove after multiple shaky outings of late.