NFL Could Relocate Rams-Vikings Playoff Game To Arizona Due To Ongoing L.A. Wildfires

Devastating wildfires in southern California may impact the NFL Playoffs this weekend, as the league is closely monitoring developments in the area ahead of a Wild Card matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings. If the natural disaster proves to be a credible threat to public safety, the league could move the game from SoFi Stadium to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. 

“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,” the league said in a statement Wednesday. “We continue to prepare to play the Vikings-Rams game as scheduled Monday night at SoFi Stadium.”

The league did not specify what would be necessary for the playoff game to be relocated, but the contingency plan to move it to Glendale will be set in motion “in the event a change in location is needed.”

The first wildfire began in the Palisades on Tuesday, Jan. 7, and is still raging, covering more than 17,000 acres of land and destroying thousands of structures to this point. Authorities have not yet been able to contain the fire in any capacity. At least four smaller wildfires have spread to surrounding areas, forcing more than 125,000 people to evacuate throughout the city.

Based in Inglewood, SoFi Stadium is located about 10 miles south of the current impacted areas, but powerful winds could spread the fires further. This is not the only obstacle the league must overcome to host its playoff game as planned. Air quality is also a serious issue to consider, as players and fans alike may have to face adverse conditions regardless of damage in the area if the fires are not contained by Monday. 

Several Rams players have issued statements to support Los Angeles residents and vow to assist in the recovery effort. Anna Kupp, wife of star wide receiver Cooper Kupp, said that the family’s home was still safe and offered prayers for those impacted.

“Our hearts are so heavy,” Anna Kupp said. “Cooper and I are currently looking into ways we can help those who have been affected by this tragedy. Until then, we continue to pray for peace and safekeeping over the families who have suffered so much already, prayer for our heroes actively fighting these fires, and prayer for the winds to subside and the land to heal. We love you LA.”

In 2003, the NFL had to relocate a playoff game between the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins to Tempe, Arizona, because of wildfires. Competing in a neutral location, the Chargers lost 26-10. They have since relocated to Los Angeles, and reportedly altered their practice schedule this week due to air quality concerns as they prepare for their own playoff game in Houston on Saturday.

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