The Los Angeles Rams began the playoffs with a dominant 27-9 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night time as a part of NFL Wild Card Weekend.
The sport was performed at State Farm Stadium, the house subject of the Arizona Cardinals, because of the ongoing wildfires in Southern California.
In what has been a troublesome state of affairs for everybody concerned, the Rams tried to maintain their concentrate on the sport itself whereas additionally being delicate to these affected by the tragedy.
Matthew Stafford spoke to ESPN’s Lisa Salters after the victory and stated the Rams had been to offer the folks of Los Angeles one thing to cheer about:
“I imply, we knew what we had been enjoying for at present. It was go get this win, however man that is for the folks of Los Angeles struggling proper now. It’s been unbelievable to observe the entire neighborhood, the state, the nation type of get behind them. It’s a troublesome time to be again there, and we’re simply blissful that we got here out and performed like this to offer (Los Angeles) one thing to be blissful about tonight.”
Stafford added that the Rams had been decided to defeat the Vikings for the town:
“We simply know what’s happening again residence, felt actually motivated to play for the folks of the town. It’s been a hell of per week so we’re blissful to come back out with a win.”
The Rams entered their matchup towards the Vikings as 2.5-point underdogs however seemed just like the superior staff from the beginning. L.A. scored a landing on their opening drive of the sport and compelled two turnovers within the first half.
Sean McVay’s staff took a commanding 24-3 lead into halftime and held the Vikings to simply six factors over the ultimate two quarters. The protection got here up massive with 9 sacks on former USC Trojans star Sam Darnold, who seemed uncomfortable for many of the recreation.
The Rams will now shift their focus to the Philadelphia Eagles, who’re coming off a 22-10 win over the Inexperienced Bay Packers within the Wild Card Spherical. The matchup is scheduled for Sunday at 12 p.m. PT, with a visit to the NFC Championship Recreation on the road.
Rams’ Tyler Higbee anticipated to play towards Eagles
The Rams’ win over the Vikings sadly got here at a price as Tyler Higbee exited within the first half on account of a chest harm. The 32-year-old led the staff with 5 receptions and 58 receiving yards earlier than leaving the sport.
Rams head coach Sean McVay stated Higbee was transported to a neighborhood hospital after spitting up blood however is ok now and may be capable to swimsuit up towards the Eagles on Sunday.
