Rams secure final NFL Playoff spot with win over Vikings, honour LA firefighters

The Rams defeated the Vikings 27-9 to advance in the NFL playoffs, honoring LA's firefighters during a relocated game.

The Los Angeles Rams advanced to the NFL playoffs with a commanding 27-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, clinching the final spot in Week Two of the playoffs. Despite the relocation of Monday's game to Arizona's State Farm Stadium due to wildfires around Los Angeles, the Rams maintained home-game energy, with over 52,000 fans filling the venue.

The wildfires, which claimed 24 lives, prompted the Rams to pay tribute to first responders. Quarterback Matthew Stafford dedicated the win to the people of Los Angeles, saying, "We knew what we were playing for... It's been a whirlwind, but to come out here and play like we did, in all phases, I'm really proud of this group."

The Rams dominated from the outset, taking a 24-3 halftime lead. Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold struggled under pressure, being sacked six times and turning the ball over twice. Cobie Durant’s interception and Ahkello Witherspoon’s forced fumble led to Jared Verse’s 57-yard touchdown return, further extending the Rams' lead. Stafford also connected with Kyren Williams and Davis Allen for touchdown passes, showcasing a balanced offensive performance.

The game was relocated to Phoenix, over 375 miles from the Rams' home at SoFi Stadium. The team traveled with a contingent of more than 400 people, including players, families, and staff. They utilized the Arizona Cardinals’ training facility to prepare for the game.

Minnesota entered the playoffs as the fifth seed after losing to the Detroit Lions in a pivotal Week 18 matchup. The loss cost the Vikings the NFC's top seed, a first-round bye, and home-field advantage, forcing them to play on the road for Wildcard Weekend. The defeat marked their second first-round playoff exit in three years, despite finishing the regular season with a 14-3 record.

The Rams capitalized on the Vikings’ struggles, particularly Darnold’s turnovers and a disallowed touchdown on what Minnesota believed was a Stafford fumble. While Darnold found TJ Hockenson for a 26-yard touchdown in the third quarter, the Vikings failed to build momentum, conceding defeat early in the fourth quarter.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Preme Sports (@nflpreme)

The Rams’ win secures their place in the Divisional Round, giving them an opportunity to continue their playoff run while honoring their city and its resilience in the face of tragedy.

The NFL Playoffs Divisional round will begin on the weekend.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by NFL (@nfl)

Saturday, 18 January

AFC - Houston Texans (4) at Kansas City Chiefs (1), 21:30 GMT

NFC - Washington Commanders (6) at Detroit Lions (1), 01:15 GMT

 

Sunday, 19 January

NFC, Los Angeles Rams (4) at Philadelphia Eagles (2) 20:00 GMT

AFC - Baltimore Ravens (3) at Buffalo Bills (2), 23:30 GMT