Countdown to the NFC championship

Driving the news: With the Seahawks hosting the Rams in the NFC championship, this is the last semi-functional day before the city's attention fully collapses into kickoff countdowns, superstitions and nerves.

The big picture: The Friday before a championship game isn't just about hype; it's about balancing optimism and belief with the fear Seahawks fans know too well.

Between the lines: Seahawks fans have learned restraint the hard way with excitement that's tempered by memories of close calls, heartbreaks and seasons that felt destined — until they weren't.

• The Rams already beat Seattle once this season, and lost the rematch by a single point in December.

What we're watching: Whether any of the Hawks' stars set historic marks or reach career milestones this weekend, per the NFL.

• Head coach Mike Macdonald could tie the NFL record for most wins in a season by a coach under age 40.
• WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the league's receiving yards leader, could become just the fourth ever to lead the league and make the Super Bowl.
• QB Sam Darnold has a shot to reach the Super Bowl in his first season with the team — a rare feat.

The bottom line: Blue Friday is already underway.