Frank Gore is headed to Miami for his second career Pro Bowl appearance. With the NFC's top rusher Stephen Jackson out of the game with an injury, first alternate Gore was named as his replacement. Gore rushed for 1,120 yards (T-11th NFL) and 10 touchdowns (T-9th NFL) while having 406 yards and 3 touchdowns receiving this season.

If the Vikings beat the Saints this Sunday, Justin Smith will also be headed to the Pro Bowl, his first. Smith is the second alternate behind Pat Williams at 4-3 defensive tackle and both Williamses would obviously sit out of the game in preparation for the Super Bowl. Smith was arguably the most dominant 3-4 DE in the league this year and a highly overlooked player on the 49ers' defense, putting constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks and causing plenty of havoc in the backfield all year long.