Rams to bring L.A. to Arizona with home field flair for relocated wild-card game

The Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for a wild-card game against the Minnesota Vikings, albeit away from their usual SoFi Stadium. Due to severe wildfires that necessitated a late relocation, the Rams will play at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Rams president Kevin Demoff expressed his disappointment, stating that while it feels heartbreaking for the players and fans, the decision was ultimately made for safety.

To compensate for the change of venue, the Rams are working hard to recreate the SoFi Stadium atmosphere for their fans. This includes special end zone paint, providing free charter bus transportation for 1,500 season ticket holders, and anticipated appearances from franchise legends such as Andrew Whitworth, Torry Holt, and Mike Jones. The team aims to bring the familiar feeling of home to the nearly 300 miles away location.

Fans can look forward to interactive experiences resembling their home games, including the classic "Whose House? Rams House!" chant, as well as additional fan engagement activities like a noise meter and player celebrations. The Rams have emphasized that the game serves as an opportunity to unite Los Angeles and represent the city, despite being in Arizona.

Whitworth will begin the festivities with a message dedicated to Los Angeles fans, complemented by singer Rachel Platten performing her Emmy Award-winning song "Fight Song," while a 200-foot "LA Together" banner is unveiled. The team will also show support for local organizations by having players, coaches, and staff wear custom Los Angeles Fire Department attire, with proceeds from merchandise sales aiding the LAFD Foundation and American Red Cross.

As the game unfolds, the Cardinals' flag crew will join Rams mascot Rampage to carry LA Together flags onto the field, promoting solidarity for the city. Holt will serve as the honorary Rampede Captain to energize fans, while Jones will be recognized during the second quarter as the Legend of the Game for his pivotal role in securing the Rams' Super Bowl XXXIV victory.