Not your usual playoff game.
This Monday night, the Los Angeles Rams will host the 14-3 Minnesota Vikings at State Farm Stadium in Arizona.
This final wildcard round game is a rare scenario, as the 10-7 Rams are hosting a team with a much superior record due to unique circumstances in a neutral environment.
Originally set to take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, the game was relocated because of the devastating fires in Southern California. The league made the right decision, prioritising the safety of first responders and the public.
Once again, the thoughts of everyone at HuddleUK are with those who have been affected.
Fortunately for the Rams, they have continued training as usual, with full access to the Arizona Cardinals’ facilities. Earlier in the season, the Rams defeated the Vikings in a controversial Thursday night match-up led by quarterback Matthew Stafford.
With the game relocated, the Rams will not have the same home-field advantage they would at SoFi Stadium. Expect a strong turnout of Vikings fans in Scottsdale.
Injury report
Los Angeles enters the game healthier than they have been all season, although running back Blake Corum will be absent.
Kyren Williams, a reliable option, is expected to take most of the snaps.
Meanwhile, the Vikings come in as clear favourites, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, who has exceeded expectations. Weapons like Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison and running back Aaron Jones make this offense one of the most dangerous in the league.
The Rams’ roster is young but talented. Defensive rookie Jared Verse is a lock for defensive rookie of the year, while Brandon Fiske and Kobie Turner continue to impress.
On offense, wide receiver Puka Nacua can change games single-handedly. The wildcard? Veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp. After an MVP-caliber 2021 postseason, injuries have since slowed him down.
This year, questions about his age, declining yardage, and lack of touchdowns have begun to surface. However, this postseason could be Kupp’s chance to silence the doubters.
No fear
Despite the odds, Rams head coach Sean McVay remains confident. As McVay said: “We respect all, but we fear none.”
With Los Angeles lacking an NFL team for years, many fans adopted different teams to support. As a result, the city has become a melting pot of football allegiances.
However, given the tragic circumstances still unfolding with the fires in Southern California, the city seems united behind the Rams in a way rarely seen.
This game is about more than just advancing in the playoffs – it is about representing Los Angeles during a challenging time.
The Rams are not only playing for themselves but for the entire city, now rallying behind them more than ever before.
With that mindset, do not count out the Rams. They the done it before, and definitely can do it again.
Story originally by former writer Stuart Warren.
