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The Numbers Game

Super Bowl XXVI could be as close as the Giants" 20-19 win over the Bills last year. Here are three revealing statistical reference points:

THE NEW NO-NAMES
Conventional NFL wisdom says champions are built through the draft, with Plan B free agency used to fill the holes. But the Skins defense, which this season ranked second in the league in fewest points allowed and third overall, goes against the grain. The starting lineup is made up of three players who were drafted by the Skins, five who were signed under Plan B, two who were acquired through trades and one free agent. And Washington's regular-season stats compare favorably with those of four of the best defenses among past Super Bowl winners:

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FGA

FGM

Pct.

Lohmiller

5

4

.800

Norwood

3

0

.000

PHOTO

PETER READ MILLER

Forcing turnovers has been a key to the Skin's success

PHOTO

PETER READ MILLER

Lohmiller is at his best when the game is played indoors.