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NFL to move Rams-Vikings game out of Los Angeles area to Arizona if wildfires force shift
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- NFL to move Rams-Vikings game out of Los Angeles area to Arizona if wildfires force shift
As immensely destructive wildfires continue raging through the greater Los Angeles area, the NFL has telegraphed an alternate plan in the event Monday night's game between the NFC West champion Rams and Minnesota Vikings at SoFi Stadium, which is in neighboring Inglewood, cannot be safely played.
"The NFL's priority is the safety of the Los Angeles community. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the first responders. Our hearts are with Los Angeles and everyone affected by the fires," read a statement distributed by the league Wednesday evening.
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"We continue to prepare to play the Vikings - Rams game as scheduled Monday night at SoFi Stadium. As with all games, there are contingency plans in the event a change in location is needed. In this instance, the game would be played on Monday night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ, if necessary.
"We will continue to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with public officials, both clubs and the NFLPA."
Thursday, the Rams signaled that – currently – the game will be played as originally planned.
Rams players have offered support on social media, Cooper Kupp posting Wednesday on X: "Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the fires. Thank you to the firefighters, first responders, and everyone else doing their best in unfathomable circumstances."
If a change is necessary, it wouldn't be the first time the NFL moved a Monday night contest from Southern California due to wildfires. A matchup between the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins in 2003 had to be shifted to Tempe, Arizona. The displaced Chargers lost 26-10 .
The Bolts, who relocated to LA in 2017, could experience disruption ahead of their wild-card game Saturday in Houston against the AFC South champion Texans . The Chargers altered their practice schedule Wednesday due to air quality issues.
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Follow USA TODAY Sports' Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter, @ByNateDavis .
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Los Angeles wildfires could force NFL playoff game location shift
