In this Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016 file photo, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) throws as offensive tackle Eric Fisher (72) blocks Oakland Raiders defensive back Dewey McDonald (35) during the first half of an NFL football game in Kansas City, Mo. (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.
THREE DOWN
1. Browns: It s Sunday on the last day of the season: Do you know where your former starting quarterback is? Johnny Manziel allegedly left for Las Vegas, all but ensuring he won t be back in Cleveland.
2. Buccaneers: No patience for the process. Coach Lovie Smith didn t improve the defense enough, and a season-ending four-game losing streak cost him his job.
3. 49ers: Jim Tomsula didn t work out? Really. That s weird. And you owe him $10.5 million? Good thing Jim Harbaugh fell on his face in Michigan. Oh wait.
