NFL announces contingency plan if SoFi Stadium can’t be used for Rams-Vikings playoff game due to wildfires
A California neighborhood smolders in the middle of a wildfire
Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin reported from the border of Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica, saying there was no visible active fire as firefighters worked to extinguish wildfires across the Los Angeles area.
The NFL has established a contingency plan as it continues to monitor the California wildfires ahead Los Angeles Rams-Minnesota Vikings matchup on Monday.
The hosts are the Rams, who are placed under number 4 Vikings no. 5 at SoFi Stadium, but with wildfires raging in the area, it’s highly likely that the Inglewood concourse will not be used.
The NFL released a statement saying it plans to play Rams-Vikings as scheduled Monday night at SoFi Stadium. If the stadium cannot be used, the match will be moved to another location.
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Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams throws a pass during the third quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium on December 28, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Harry How/Getty Images)
State Farm Stadium, home of the club Arizona Cardinals in Glendale, will be the backup location for the wild-card game, if necessary.
“The NFL’s priority is the safety of the Los Angeles community,” the league’s statement began. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of first responders. Our hearts go out to Los Angeles and everyone affected by the fires.
“We will continue to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with public officials, both the clubs and the NFLPA.”
NFL WATCH LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES WITH RAMS TO HOST VIKINGS IN WILD CARD ROUND
The league released a statement earlier Wednesday saying it was monitoring the situation.
The Rams had an off day on Wednesday, although they Los Angeles Chargerswho share SoFi Stadium and travel to Houston for their own wild card game on Saturday, have limited players’ time outside during practice because of poor air quality.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Inglewood’s air quality index reached 281, according to ESPN. Air is considered unhealthy at 150 or above.
A restaurant in Pacific Palisades burned overnight. The Pacific Palisades wildfire, which started on Tuesday, January 7, has spread rapidly due to Santa Ana winds in the Los Angeles area. Hundreds of homes and vehicles were destroyed, and thousands of people were evacuated. (Michael Ho Wai Lee/Sipa via AP)
At least 70,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as three large fires burn from the Pacific coast to Pasadena. Officials say the number of evacuation orders continues to fluctuate as the fires rage.
The Rams announced Wednesday that no players or staff members were affected by the fires, but the team is closely monitoring the situation.
“Our hearts go out to those affected by the Eaton fire in the Altadena/Pasadena area and to the first responders protecting our community. Be safe,” the Rams said.
Rams star receivers Puka Nacu and Cooper Kupp were among many who posted on X to show support for the community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the fires,” Kupp said. “Thank you to the firefighters, emergency services and everyone else who is doing their best in incomprehensible circumstances.”
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay looks on from the sidelines during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles in Inglewood, Calif., on Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
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Natcua added: “Thank you to all the first responders! God bless the affected families!”
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