NFC Championship Game

SI Staff | Jan 29, 2007

NFC Championship Game /

NFC Championship Game

Led by linebacker Lance Briggs (55), the Bears defense broke through to sack Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who was sacked three times, losing 35 yards.

Brees attempts to regain his equilibrium while the Bears defense huddles.

Wide receiver Rashied Davis slips past cornerback Fred Thomas after catching a pass from Rex Grossman.

The Bears' 39-14 victory makes Lovie Smith the first African-American coach to qualify a team for the Super Bowl.

Cedric Benson carries two defenders on a carry up the middle.

Thomas Jones (20) rushed for 123 yards, including this second-quarter touchdown.

Jones fights off safety Josh Bullocks (right) during a second-quarter carry.

Much-maligned Bears quarterback Rex Grossman completed 11 of 26 for passes for 144 yards and one touchdown.

Grossman hands off to Jones during the Bears' rout.

Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson (99) and defensive end Mark Anderson pile up on Brees in the fourth quarter.

Jones celebrates after scoring on a 15-yard run in the fourth quarter, his second TD of the day.

Briggs keeps the pressure on Brees as he works out of the Saints end zone.

Bears wide receiver Bernard Berrian gets a lift after his 33-yard touchdown catch helped ensure Chicago's second trip to the Super Bowl.

Published Jan 29, 2007

SI STAFF