As immensely destructive wildfires continue raging through the greater Los Angeles area, the NFL has already put together 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.
‘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.’
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.’
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If a change is necessary, it wouldn’t be the first time the NFL moved a Monday night game from Southern California due to wildfires. A contest between the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins in 2003 had to be shifted to Tempe, Arizona, then home of the Cardinals. The displaced Chargers lost 26-10.
The Bolts, who left San Diego in 2017 to relocate to LA, could again experience a disruption ahead of their wild-card game Saturday afternoon 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.