2 min read • January 12, 2025
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The 2025 NFL Wild Card Round concludes on Monday night featuring a matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams.
Originally set to take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the game has been relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles area.
Team Standings and Season Performance
The Minnesota Vikings concluded the regular season with an impressive 14-3 record, securing the No. 5 seed in the NFC. Despite their strong performance, a loss to the Detroit Lions in the final game relegated them to a wild-card spot.
The Los Angeles Rams finished the season at 10-7, clinching the NFC West division title and the No. 4 seed. Their season was marked by resilience, winning nine of their last eleven games post-bye week to surge from last to first in their division.
Previous Encounter
These teams met earlier in Week 8, with the Rams securing a 30-20 victory. In that game, the Rams' offense was bolstered by the return of wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, who combined for 12 receptions and 157 yards. The Vikings' defense was caught off-guard by Nacua's unexpected activation, which contributed to their struggles.
Linebacker Blake Cashman, who missed the previous matchup in Week 8 due to a toe injury, is expected to play, bolstering the Vikings' defense.
Running Back Aaron Jones has been limited in practice this week with a quadriceps injury, he's been playing through the injury at a full workload so all signs indicate he'll likely play on Monday vs the Rams.
Out:
LB Patrick Jones II (knee)
Questionable:
RB Cam Akers (illness)
DL Taki Taimani (ankle)
Right tackle Rob Havenstein is anticipated to return after being sidelined since December 22 with a shoulder injury, providing a significant boost to the offensive line.
Vikings: Wide receiver Justin Jefferson led the league with 28 receptions of 20-plus yards this season, making him a critical component of Minnesota's offensive strategy.
Rams: Puka Nacua set an NFL rookie record with 181 receiving yards in last year's wild-card game and will be a focal point for the Rams' passing attack.
Game Outlook
The relocation of the game to Arizona adds an unexpected twist, potentially affecting both teams' preparations. The Vikings will aim to avenge their earlier loss, relying on a potent offense and a reinforced defense with Cashman's return. Conversely, the Rams, buoyed by the return of Havenstein, will look to replicate their previous success against Minnesota.
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Aaron Jones Under 14.5 Rushing Attempts
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