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.”
News from @nfl345 pic.twitter.com/qvApzVe4NK
— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) January 10, 2025
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.
VIKINGS-RAMS RELOCATION: In the interest of public safety, Monday’s Vikings vs. Rams Wild Card game has been moved to Arizona.
The game will be televised on ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ at its scheduled 8pm ET time. pic.twitter.com/VVJcRZrSYM
— NFL (@NFL) January 10, 2025
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.