The NFL announced that a contingency plan has been put in place ahead of the Los Angeles Rams-Minnesota Vikings wild-card matchup Monday at SoFi Stadium, while it continues to monitor the ongoing wildfires in California. The No. 4-seeded Rams are scheduled to host the No. 5 Vikings on Monday; however as the fires continue to rage on, there is a strong chance the venue will not be viable for use. SoFi Stadium is located in southwest Los Angeles, about 10 miles from the Palisades Fire that has devastated parts of Santa Monica.
The league issued a statement noting it was monitoring the situation, and stating if SoFi Stadium can’t be used, the game will be moved to a different venue. If necessary, State Farm Stadium — home of the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale, AZ — will be the backup location for the wild-card game.
The statement read: “The NFL’s priority is the safety of the Los Angeles community. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the first responders. Our hearts are with Los Angeles and everyone affected by the fires. We will continue to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with public officials, both clubs and the NFLPA .. We continue to prepare to play the Vikings-Rams game as scheduled Monday night at SoFi Stadium. As with all games, there are contingency plans in the event a change in location is needed. In this instance, the game would be played on Monday night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ, if necessary.”
The Los Angeles Chargers, who share SoFi Stadium with the Rams, limited players’ time outside during practice due to poor air quality. As of Wednesday afternoon, the air quality index in Inglewood hit 281 (air is considered unhealthy at 150 or higher).
The Rams made an announcement that no players or staff members have been affected by the fires, but the team is closely monitoring the situation: “Our hearts are with those affected by the Eaton Fire in the Altadena/Pasadena area and the first responders protecting our community. Be safe.”
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