MIAMI at SEATTLE

* Story line: In a shocking development, someone must win this game, which means it could go on and on. Each team was 8-2 at one point, and their coaches proclaimed geniuses. Now they barely know how to win. The Seahawks lost five of their last six and will be playing their first home playoff game since 1984. The Dolphins will make their third playoff appearance under Coach Jimmy Johnson, and possibly their last if rumors that Johnson is contemplating retirement are true. Dan Marino, who advanced to the Super Bowl in his second season, and lost, has never returned and might also be playing his last game for the Dolphins.

* Key offensive stat: The Seahawks rank 28th in the league trying to stop the run, which sets up a good opportunity for Miami running back J.J. Johnson, although he has been bothered by a hamstring injury. But the Dolphins also have trouble scoring touchdowns, relying instead on kicker Olindo Mare, who set an NFL record with 39 field goals.

* Key defensive stat: Seattle led the league with 30 interceptions, a nightmare for Marino, who looks shy on arm strength after suffering a nerve injury in his shoulder and neck late in the season.

* Potential star of the game: Seahawk quarterback Jon Kitna. Seattle rose to the top of the AFC West early because Kitna did not turn the ball over. The Dolphins live on turnovers, and if Kitna maintains his poise, the Dolphins’ chances wither.

* But keep an eye on: Seattle wide receiver Joey Galloway, who has been bothered by a sore hamstring. The Seahawks were at their very best while Galloway held out in a contract dispute, and have struggled since his return, but Galloway had five receptions for 137 yards with two touchdowns in his only previous game against Miami.

* History says: Both coaches have won Super Bowls, but they also know the value of home-field advantage in the playoffs. Mike Holmgren has the edge in the Kingdome, and this will be the Seahawks’ last appearance in the noisy building. Holmgren was 5-0 with the Green Bay Packers in home playoff games at Lambeau Field.

* Injury update: The Seahawks tried to limp through last week’s game with Ricky Watters (knee) but won’t make that mistake again. If Watters is not effective early, Holmgren will turn to Ahman Green. The Seahawks put safety Brian Walker on injured reserve and signed tight end Rufus French. The Dolphins have a hard time catching the ball and are handicapped by the number of injuries. Tight end Troy Drayton (knee) is out, and Yatil Green (ankle) and O.J. McDuffie (toe) are limping and listed as questionable.

* And the winner is: Seattle. Johnson and Marino walk off the field looking at each other for some sign of who will make the retirement announcement first.