With Los Angeles, California, ravaged by widespread wildfires, the National Football League moved the Wild Card Round game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings to State Farm Stadium in Arizona. The NFL monitored the situation and finalized the new venue when the wildfires were not yet contained.
While the Rams’ home field, SoFi Stadium, is far from harm’s way, the league must implement safety measures for the teams involved. However, both teams could have their fans attend the game as season ticket holders were given priority to purchase tickets.
Monday’s Vikings-Rams Wild Card game has been moved from SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA to State Farm Stadium, the home of the Arizona Cardinals, the NFL announced today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 10, 2025
The decision was made in consultation with public officials, the participating clubs and the NFLPA.
The…
The Rams initially earned the right to host the playoff game after winning the NFC West over their closest competitor, the Seattle Seahawks. They would have hosted the Minnesota Vikings, a team that lost their regular-season finale to the Detroit Lions to fall to the fifth seed.
Instead, the game will be on neutral ground at Phoenix. On their part, the Arizona Cardinals allowed the Rams to use their team planes to transport their players, coaches, and equipment. The Rams and the Vikings will also use the Cardinals’ practice facility to prepare for the game.
-Lance Fernandez