15 January 2025

the Los Angeles Rams Played with heavy hearts Monday night.

With the Los Angeles Fire Department Emblazoned across their chests From the coaches and wildfires burning in Southern California back home, the Rams were able to beat the Minnesota Vikings 27-9 in the wild card round of the playoffs.

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Sean McVay cheers on the team

Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay reacts to a Davis Allen touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

The game was moved from SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to fires. However, the fans showed up in full force and enjoyed a huge victory from the boys in blue and gold.

It really started with defense. The Rams sacked Darnold six times in the first half and three more times in the second half for a total of nine times. Jared Fiers also recovered a Darnold fumble and returned it 57 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter.

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford didn't need to do much. He was 19 of 27 for 209 yards and two touchdowns. One of the two touchdowns was by Kyren Williams and the other was by Davies Allen.

The Super Bowl champion quarterback completed passes to eight different receivers.

Coby Turner and Byron Young celebrate

Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Coby Turner (91) celebrates his sack by Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold with Byron Young (0) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Roger Goodell talks about the NFL's decision to move the Rams-Vikings game amid wildfires

The defense has returned Darnold to the player he resembled earlier in his career. He was late getting passes and looked indecisive for most of the game.

Despite the great season, he finished the playoff game 25 of 40 with 245 passing yards, a touchdown pass, and one interception. His only score went to tight end TJ Hockenson, who led the team with five catches for 64 yards.

Vikings star Justin Jefferson had five catches for 58 yards.

Los Angeles returned to the divisional round for the fourth time under coach Sean McVay. The Rams will now hit the road vs Philadelphia Eagles. The two teams will meet on Sunday at three in the afternoon, Egypt time.

The Vikings could start their offseason and figure out what they ultimately do with Darnold. The veteran quarterback was brought in as an emergency in the offseason after JJ McCarthy ruptured his Achilles tendon in training camp.

TJ Hockenson officiates

Minnesota Vikings tight end TJ Hockenson (87) runs after making a 26-yard catch against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scottri)

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Now, Minnesota will have to decide whether to give the keys to the Cadillac to McCarthy or keep Darnold around for at least one more season.

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