Posted on Jan 10
Wildfires Disrupt NFL Practices: Rams, Chargers Face Challenges Amidst Smoke and Safety Concerns
u/alex •
Wildfires in Southern California impact NFL teams and games.
Why it matters: The ongoing wildfires have created challenges for the Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, and Los Angeles Chargers, affecting practice conditions and potentially game locations.
What's new: Both the Rams and Chargers held outdoor practices amid the wildfires, with visible smoke and players wearing masks. The Rams upcoming game against the Vikings at SoFi Stadium may be moved to Arizona if necessary.
Yes, but: Despite the disruptions caused by the fires, Rams coach Sean McVay expects the game to be played at SoFi Stadium and remains focused on the team's preparation.
What to watch: The situation with the wildfires and its impact on practice facilities and game venues will continue to unfold leading up to the scheduled game between the Rams and Vikings.
Rams coach Sean McVay: "I am expecting the game to be in SoFi... We're operating with the full expectation that that's where we're going to play."
Vikings player representative Harrison Phillips: "When a hurricane hits a certain location, or if a tornado came through and devastated a community, you want to be very cautious of the optics."
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell: "There's really no words you can say other than you're thinking about them, praying for them, and just hoping that things start to turn here."
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh: "Our guys did a great job with improvising and adjusting... we were able to get as close as we possibly could to what a normal practice would look like."
The bottom line: The wildfires in Southern California have impacted the daily operations of NFL teams, creating challenges for players, coaches, and staff. The teams are adapting their practices and closely monitoring the situation as they prepare for upcoming games.