NFL releases statement on Vikings-Rams game as new playoff venue considered due to wildfires

If wildfires prevent the Los Angeles Rams-Minnesota Vikings playoff game in California, the NFL has a backup plan.

Wildfires have killed five people, burned over 100,000 properties, and forced over 100,000 people to evacuate. The first Pacific Palisades fire was Los Angeles' most damaging.

Wildfires forced the Los Angeles Kings to postpone their NHL game against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday. Fears that the NFL playoff game between the No. 4 Rams and No. 5 Vikings at SoFi Stadium on Monday may be postponed.

The NFL has confirmed Monday's game, although it's unknown where: SoFi Stadium or elsewhere. The league is considering State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, for the event.

The NFL stated: "Los Angeles community safety is our concern. We appreciate the first responders' dedication. Our thoughts are with Los Angeles and the fire victims.

“We continue to prepare for the Vikings-Rams game on Monday night at SoFi Stadium. All games have location-change plans. If needed, the game would be played on Monday night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

The announcement follows hours after NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said: "The NFL continues to closely monitor developments and will remain in contact with both clubs and the NFLPA."

NFL playoffs begin this weekend with wild card round. No. 6 Washington Commanders will play No. 3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while No. 2 Philadelphia Eagles will host No. 7 Green Bay Packers in the NFC. Both games are Sunday.

On Saturday afternoon, the No. 5 Los Angeles Charges will play the No. 4 Houston Texans in the AFC, followed by the No. 3 Baltimore Ravens hosting the No. 6 Pittsburgh Steelers. The No. 2 Buffalo Bills and No. 7 Denver Broncos play the last AFC wild card game at Highmark Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

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