PHX Reporter

The NFL has decided to relocate the Wild Card playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings from Los Angeles to State Farm Stadium in Arizona due to wildfires in Southern California. This change has required significant logistical coordination among the league and various NFL organizations.

Rams coach Sean McVay acknowledged the surreal nature of the situation, stating, "It's one of those deals that almost doesn't feel real, but it certainly is real to the people that are affected." He noted that some staff members' homes were impacted by outages and recommended evacuations, but fortunately, no injuries have been reported.

The Rams plan to depart Los Angeles after practice on Friday and will utilize the Cardinals' facilities at Dignity Health Training Center in Tempe for their preparations. The Cardinals organization has actively collaborated with the Rams to simulate a home game environment as closely as possible within a limited timeframe. This includes sending two Boeing 777 airliners from Gridiron Air to transport approximately 350 Rams players, coaches, staff, and families from California to Arizona.

Rams president Kevin Demoff expressed gratitude towards the Cardinals: "Many thanks to the #AZCardinals, Michael Bidwill and his family for jumping in to help ahead of Monday's game."

This marks the fourth instance since 2003 where the Cardinals have assisted another California-based NFL team under similar circumstances.

In response to the wildfires, the NFL announced a $5 million donation from its clubs and ownership groups of several teams including the Rams and Chargers. Commissioner Roger Goodell stated: "We are heartbroken over the devastating losses experienced by so many in the Los Angeles area... The NFL family is committed to working with the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams to support their local communities in their time of need."

Additionally, both teams will wear custom LAFD hats and shirts featuring team-specific logos. These items will be available for public purchase with proceeds benefiting related charities. Game-worn jerseys and footballs will also be auctioned off through NFL Auction.