1. With the Winter Olympics only 31 days away, Bob Costas told Matt that the public needs to lower their expectations for skier Lindsey Vonn, who has struggled with injuries since last season.
“You’re talking about someone who is arguably the greatest female ski racer of all time when you take into account world championships and everything,” he said. “But these Olympics, the expectations have to be lowered.”
2. Peter Alexander gets a rare ride aboard Marine One, the president’s helicopter, and a insider's look at those who maintain it.
3. With over half of the country being threatened by a deep freeze, NBC News chief medical editor Dr. Nancy Snyderman offers some important tips for surviving the cold weather and avoiding serious health problems.
“If you don’t have to go out, don’t go out,” she said.
4. As part of TODAY’s ‘Shine a Light’ series, Matt and Savannah commit to bring a playground to a neighborhood in need this year.
5. Carey Mulligan stops by the studio to talk about her role in “Inside Llewyn Davis,” the new film by the Coen Brothers, and admits that she would rather do a nude scene than sing in a film.
6. Science teacher John Sizna followed a 2,000 calorie diet and ate only McDonald's. The result? He lost 37 pounds.