LEADING OFF

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Photograph by David Bergman

HIP HUGGER Linebacker Ernie Sims flew like, well, an Eagle to tackle Packers fullback Quinn Johnson on Sunday after Johnson had caught a pass from quarterback Aaron Rodgers in their NFC wild-card game in Philadelphia. Johnson gained four yards on the play. The Packers won 21--16 and will play the top-seeded Falcons in Atlanta on Saturday (page 48).

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Photograph by John Biever

NOSE TO THE GROUND Colts long snapper Justin Snow got down as he released the ball during the AFC wild-card game against the Jets in Indianapolis last Saturday. The visitors won a thriller 17--16 and will face the top-seeded Patriots in New England on Sunday (page 46).

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Photograph by Peter Read Miller

BEASTLY IN SEATTLE After breaking seven tackles on a wild 67-yard romp, Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch finished with a backward plunge into the end zone last Saturday at Qwest Field. Some are calling Lynch's run, which sealed a massive 41--36 upset over the defending Super Bowl--champion Saints, the greatest in playoff history.