Gregoire, Blagojevich bet salmon, barbecue on game

OLYMPIA, Wash.– Confident the Seahawks have hit their stride, Gov. Chris Gregoire has placed a wager on this Sunday's playoff game against Chicago.

She bet Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich that the defending NFC champion Seahawks would beat the Bears at Soldier Field in the second round of the NFC playoffs.

At stake is smoked salmon and Washington's world-renowned apples. Blagojevich countered with an offer of a Du Quoin state fair favorite, 17th Street barbecue, and Cozy Dogs, an Illinois tradition from Route 66.

"The Seahawks have found a way to win despite difficulties with injuries this season and, once again, we see them in the playoffs," Gregoire said in a statement. "I can't wait to serve Illinois barbecue and hot dogs for the NFC championship game."

The Seahawks are coming off a 21-20 win over the Dallas Cowboys in last Saturday's NFC wild-card game. The Bears beat Seattle 37-6 at Soldier Field earlier this season.

"I look forward to enjoying Washington smoked salmon and apples when the Bears shut them down," Blagojevich said.

Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels placed wagers with each other on Thursday.