NFL playoffs begin Saturday ... Wizards lose lead, remain winless ... NHL abandons realignment ... Byrd seeks second straight win in Hawaii ... Sports news from United Press International.

The chase for the Vince Lombardi Trophy begins Saturday with the Houston Texans appearing in the NFL playoffs for the first time in team history.

NFL playoff schedule:

NFL playoff schedule:

NFL playoff schedule:

Wilson, NHL's 'Iron Man,' dead at 82 ... Vikings make Spielman general manager ... Bears fire GM Jerry Angelo ... Strong finish puts Clijsters in 2nd round ... Sports news from United Press International.

Jerry Angelo has been fired by the Chicago Bears after serving as general manager of the NFL team for 11 seasons.

NFL playoff schedule:

NFL playoff schedule:

Eli Manning hurled three touchdowns en route to 346 yards Sunday and the New York Giants claimed the NFC East title with a 31-14 spanking of Dallas.