L.A. Rams prepare for ‘home’ playoff game as wildfires ravage hometown

The Los Angeles Rams have faced challenges as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings amidst the devastating wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area. The team, along with 355 people, six dogs, and two cats, traveled to Phoenix with the help of the Arizona Cardinals, who provided two team planes for their journey.

The Rams are determined to play for their community, which is currently dealing with the impact of the wildfires. The team’s chief operating officer, Kevin Demoff, emphasized the importance of providing hope and a sense of normalcy to their fans and the city during these trying times.

The wildfires hit close to home for many players, coaches, and staff members, with the Kenneth Fire breaking out near the team’s training complex in Woodland Hills. Families were given evacuation orders, including coach Sean McVay’s wife and young son. The uncertainty and fear caused by the fires have made it challenging for the team to focus solely on football.

Despite initially hoping to host the playoff game at SoFi Stadium, the Rams and the NFL had to implement Plan B due to the ongoing fires and public safety concerns. The Cardinals stepped in to assist with the relocation, offering their training complex for practice and ensuring that State Farm Stadium resembled a Rams home game.

Rams season ticket members quickly purchased 25,000 tickets for the relocated game, showing their unwavering support for the team. The Rams also organized transportation for fans from Inglewood to Glendale and made arrangements for players’ families and pets to join them in Arizona.

The decision to relocate the game was deemed necessary by Demoff, who acknowledged the bigger picture beyond football. The Rams have previously dealt with similar circumstances during the Woolsey Fire in 2018, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the team.

As the Rams face the Vikings in a crucial playoff matchup, they do so with a deep sense of community and a determination to overcome adversity both on and off the field. The team’s ability to come together in the face of hardship exemplifies their strength and unity as they strive for victory in the midst of challenging circumstances.