Los Angeles fires A home is engulfed in flames in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Jan. 8, 2025. A wildfire broke out in Los Angeles County on Jan. 7, which has destroyed more than 1,000 homes, businesses and other structures, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said at a briefing Wednesday.
By Arthur Weinstein on

The NFL made the move many expected Thursday night, moving the Minnesota Vikings-Los Angeles Rams Wild Card playoff game from SoFi Stadium to Arizona.

The game, scheduled for ESPN’s Monday Night Football, will be played at the Arizona Cardinals’ State Farm Stadium.

According to an NFL statement posted on X, the decision to move the game was made “in consultation with public officials, the participating clubs, and the NFLPA.”

As noted, many had expected the decision, given the situation in the Los Angeles area. Multiple fires have burned out of control, killing at least five people, destroying thousands of structures, and forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents.

Emmanuel Acho announced Thursday that he and producers of FS1’s The Facility had been forced to evacuate their homes.

While SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, is not currently in the path of any fires, holding an NFL game in the area given the current situation poses numerous logistical issues. Frankly, it’s also bad optics.

Game tickets will go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. PST on SeatGeek.com for Rams season ticket holders and at noon for the general public. The game will still be televised by ESPN, ABC, and associated platforms at 8 p.m. EST.

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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