TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams held a spirited practice in Arizona on Saturday as they prepared for their upcoming playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing, coaches directing players, and palm trees swaying in the background, creating a Southern California ambiance. Running back Kyren Williams expressed a sense of tranquility among the team, saying, “I felt like I was at peace. We didn’t really have to worry about anything except for playing ball.”
The Rams, currently with a record of 10-7, are gearing up to "host" the Vikings, who have a record of 14-3, in a crucial playoff matchup at State Farm Stadium, the home of their division rivals, the Arizona Cardinals. This unusual arrangement comes after days of wildfires in the Los Angeles area prompted the NFL to relocate the game to ensure the safety and well-being of the players, their families, and fans alike.
Having arrived in Arizona on Friday night, the Rams are relieved that their families are secure, while also empathizing with those suffering from the wildfires. “There’s a feeling amongst the team — this is for LA,” Williams stated. “This is for hope back at home that they can cling onto, that the Rams are going to be the people who can take them away from whatever they’re going through for a few hours on Monday.”
The decision to move the game to Arizona followed discussions about the ongoing threat posed by the wildfires and their potential impact on public services. The Rams were warmly welcomed at their temporary training facility, where a large banner stated, “Welcome Los Angeles Rams,” adorned with the logos of both teams. In a show of camaraderie, Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill sent two team planes to Los Angeles to facilitate the Rams' travel. To further support team members, they were allowed to bring their families and pets along on the journey.
Wide receiver Cooper Kupp shared his gratitude for the supportive measures taken, highlighting the unique opportunity to spend valuable time with his family during this challenging period. Despite the distance of approximately 375 miles from their home stadium, SoFi Stadium, the Rams are optimistic about maintaining a home-field advantage. During the first hour of ticket availability, Rams season ticket holders purchased 25,000 tickets, and the team has organized at least 15 buses to transport fans from Inglewood to the game.
State Farm Stadium has been somewhat familiar territory for the Rams, who enjoyed a nine-game winning streak in Arizona until it was snapped earlier this season. Coach Sean McVay revealed that the Rams chose to utilize the visitors' locker room because of their previous experience and comfort level with the space. Kupp noted, “For the most part, we’ve played pretty well in this stadium. It’s grass, too, which is a big bonus. I’ll take any chance we have to play on grass.”
While only a few members of the Rams organization were directly impacted by the wildfires initially, the emergence of the Kenneth Fire, which broke out near their training complex in Woodland Hills, intensified concerns. Defensive lineman Kobie Turner mentioned that fellow receiver Puka Nacua was in an evacuation warning zone, leading Turner to stay over at his house for support. This crisis has brought the team closer together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie as they look out for one another.
The Rams have faced their share of challenges on the field this season, managing to recover from a 1-4 start to clinch the NFC West title. The recent events have added yet another obstacle, but the team remains focused and determined, especially in light of what many in Los Angeles are currently enduring. Turner emphasized the gravity of the situation by stating, “At the end of the day, it’s a playoff game. You don’t get too many of these.”
