The NFL is actively monitoring the Palisades fires as preparations continue for the upcoming Monday night Rams-Vikings Wild Card game.
Emergency responders in California are engaged in fierce battles against the raging fires in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. Multiple fires are currently active in Los Angeles County, leading to evacuation orders and damage to over 1,000 structures.
On Thursday night, the NFL confirmed the establishment of a contingency plan for the Wild Card game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings, slated for SoFi Stadium. As per the league’s statement, if necessary, the game could be relocated to State Farm Stadium in Arizona, the home turf of the Arizona Cardinals.
“We are continuing preparations to host the Vikings-Rams game as scheduled at SoFi Stadium on Monday night. Like all games, we have contingency plans in place should a location change become necessary. In this case, if required, the game would be played at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ,” the statement noted.
Both the Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers, who kick off their playoff journey on the road against the Houston Texans on Saturday, are closely observing the situation. The Rams are set to resume practice on Thursday.
In light of the Chargers’ Saturday game, they modified their practice schedule on Wednesday to minimize outdoor exposure. The team organized offensive and defensive units to practice separately to reduce their time on the field.
The NFL has a history of relocating games due to wildfires. During the 2003 season, the Cedar Fire led to a State of Emergency in California, prompting the relocation of a game between the San Diego Chargers and the Miami Dolphins to Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona.
