--Defense dominated in the wild-card round of the playoffs. Seattle is best known for its offense. The Seahawks' defense has been tough all season in the red zone and against the run, but its No. 16 overall yardage ranking hardly impresses.

"That is what the playoffs are really about: Your defenses really show up," RB Shaun Alexander. "That's why defenses win championships, because it is one-and-out. I am excited because once again the world is challenging our defense. The last time I felt like they were challenged like this was Philadelphia. I am really excited."

Seattle's defense scored three touchdowns during a 42-0 victory at Philadelphia on Dec. 5.

--Rookie MLB Lofa Tatupu is used to playing on the big stage. He won two national championships at USC before Seattle made him a second-round draft choice in 2005. Big games are nothing new to him.

"I think it translates," said coach Mike Holmgren, who won college national titles as a player (USC) and assistant coach (BYU)."

The similarities end when a team advances to the Super Bowl.

"They're all wonderful experiences (at the college level)," Holmgren said, "but it's not very close (to the same) in my opinion."

--Upon further review, the Seahawks had some dysfunctional tendencies in 2004. Releasing a few troubled players has worked wonders in that regard, leading to improved chemistry in the locker room.

"It was tough - very, very tough," QB Matt Hasselbeck said of last season. "Without airing dirty laundry, (problems included) guys having alcohol on their breath at practice, knowing that a guy is facing a four-game suspension and not knowing when that is going to take place, and guys being hurt and you're feeling like, 'Is he really hurt or is he not really wanting to practice or not really wanting to play?' "

BY THE NUMBERS
22 - Penalties Seattle suffered on special teams in the regular season.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"I think two things. One, they are pretty healthy. And then two, the quarterback is playing well. He's hot and he's playing well and it's working." - Coach Mike Holmgren on traits shared by teams that win in the playoffs.

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