NFL Moves Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams Playoff to Arizona After LA Wildfires

The NFL was quick in addressing the destructive wildfires ravishing Los Angeles. The league canceled Monday's planned playoff game for the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings. However, it said the game would be played today in Glendale, Arizona instead.

The action was based on public safety, as well as logistics, as a result of the Pacific Palisades fire rampaging in that area.

How the Wildfires Affect the Neighborhood Stadium

NFL Moves Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams Playoff to Arizona

The Pacific Palisades fire, which has burned over nearly 20,000 acres, is just miles from the originally scheduled venue. Although the Rams would have benefited from a home-field advantage, the proximity of the blaze raised significant safety concerns. After discussions with local officials and both teams, the NFL made the call for the safety of fans, players, and staff, TMZ Sports reports.

"In the interest of public safety, 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 National Football League announced Thursday afternoon, four days before the game was scheduled at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.

Why NFL Chose Arizona as Relocation Site of Playoff?

State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, will be the venue for the playoff game. The location is a safe distance from the path of the fire and will allow the game to take place without putting anyone in harm's way.

The Rams and Vikings will meet here in this neutral venue, where kickoff is set for 8 PM ET Monday night.

Earlier Hopes to Stay in LA

The league had been positive about hosting the game in Los Angeles as of yesterday. However, the dangers and uncertainties surrounding the wildfires escalated, and the league was left with no other choice but to relocate. This swift decision by the league is lauded by many, setting an example of safety over convenience.

What It Means for the Teams

The Rams will not enjoy the benefit of playing in front of the home crowd again, but the team is committed to a very good performance. The move would present a relatively more equal setting for the Vikings and offer a surprising chance to play at a neutral ground.

In other news, the NBA postponed the upcoming game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets due to the LA wildfires. The league said that the date for the rescheduled games will be announced at a later time.

Even Clippers' star Kawhi Leonard was not spared from the vicious firestorm. This time, he left the team to prioritize his family's evacuation in the city.