The San Francisco 49ers and the Houston Texans dominate the National Football League Pro Bowl selections, sending nine and eight players respectively to the game.
Six of the 49ers named to the NFC squad were on defense, including linebackers Aldon Smith, NaVorro Bowman, Patrick Willis along with strong safety Donte Whitner and free safety Dashon Goldson.
Lineman Justin Smith is the other defensive player from the San Francisco team selected.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was named starter for the game that will be played in Honolulu on January 27, a week before the Super Bowl.
Rodgers, named the NFC starter for the second consecutive year, will be backed up Washington Redskins rookie Robert Griffin III and the Atlanta Falcons' Matt Ryan.
The AFC will be led by Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, who was named to his 12th Pro Bowl team.
Players from teams that make the Super Bowl will drop out of the Pro Bowl and be replaced.
