Playing with the weight of the Southern California wildfires on their minds and the Los Angeles Fire Department insignia on their chests, the Los Angeles Rams secured a decisive 27-9 victory against the Minnesota Vikings in a relocated wild-card playoff game. The match, originally scheduled for SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, was moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to the ongoing wildfires.
The Rams' defense dominated the game, sacking Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold nine times. Jared Verse's 57-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in the second quarter further solidified the Rams' control. Quarterback Matthew Stafford efficiently managed the offense, throwing for 209 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with eight different receivers. Kyren Williams and Davis Allen were on the receiving end of Stafford's touchdown passes.
Darnold struggled throughout the game, completing 25 of 40 passes for 245 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Tight end T.J. Hockenson caught Darnold's sole touchdown pass, leading the Vikings with five receptions for 64 yards. Star receiver Justin Jefferson also had five catches, totaling 58 yards.
This victory marks the Rams' fourth divisional round appearance under head coach Sean McVay. They will face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET. The Vikings now enter the offseason facing a quarterback dilemma, needing to decide between Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, who suffered a torn Achilles in training camp.
