Rams vs. Vikings on NFL playoffs where to watch live

On the night of Monday, January 13, 2025, the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings will take the field in one of the most anticipated matchups of the NFL Wild Card round. The game will take place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, at 10:00 PM (Brasilia time). Initially scheduled for SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, the match had to be relocated due to the recent wildfires that affected the California region. Despite this unexpected change, the matchup is expected to deliver excitement, showcasing two teams filled with talent and significant achievements this season.

With live broadcasts available on ESPN and Disney+ channels, as well as the NFL Game Pass platform, Brazilian fans will have several options to catch every play of this critical matchup. Both teams arrive at the postseason with distinct campaigns, yet they have shown the strength and consistency needed to reach this stage. The Rams concluded the regular season with a 10-7 record, securing the NFC West title and the fourth seed in the National Football Conference. Meanwhile, the Vikings achieved an impressive 14-3 record, finishing fifth in the NFC following a narrow loss to the Detroit Lions in the final round.

This clash promises not only memorable plays but also a spectacle that will determine which team advances to the next stage of the NFL playoffs. Among the highlights are Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, both regarded as cornerstones of their teams throughout the season.

History and recent performance of the teams

The Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings boast rich histories in the NFL, with memorable encounters over the decades. In the playoffs, the Vikings hold the upper hand against the Rams, with five wins in seven matchups. The last postseason clash between these teams occurred in 1988, where the Vikings emerged victorious with a 28-17 win. However, during the current season, the Rams defeated the Vikings 30-20 in a tightly contested Week 8 matchup, showcasing their ability to challenge strong opponents.

The Rams enter the playoffs buoyed by crucial victories in the final rounds, including wins against strong teams like the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Quarterback Matthew Stafford delivered consistent performances, amassing 4,281 passing yards and 33 touchdowns during the regular season. Additionally, the team features standout wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who recorded 1,318 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, and running back Kyren Williams, who contributed 1,152 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Vikings, on the other hand, had one of their best campaigns in recent history, highlighted by a nine-game winning streak between Weeks 9 and 17. This streak was instrumental in solidifying the team as one of the NFC’s most competitive squads. Quarterback Sam Darnold, acquired at the start of the season, surprised with 3,905 passing yards and 28 touchdowns. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson was the team’s standout player, leading the league with 1,809 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, earning him unanimous selection to the First-Team All-Pro.

Probable lineups and absences

Los Angeles Rams:

• Quarterback: Matthew Stafford
• Running Back: Kyren Williams
• Wide Receivers: Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua
• Tight End: Tyler Higbee
• Offensive Line: Alaric Jackson, Steve Avila, Coleman Shelton, Kevin Dotson, Rob Havenstein
• Defense: Aaron Donald, Ernest Jones, Jordan Fuller

Minnesota Vikings:

• Quarterback: Sam Darnold
• Running Back: Aaron Jones
• Wide Receivers: Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison
• Tight End: T.J. Hockenson
• Offensive Line: Christian Darrisaw, Ezra Cleveland, Garrett Bradbury, Ed Ingram, Brian O’Neill
• Defense: Danielle Hunter, Harrison Smith, Byron Murphy Jr.

Among the absences, the Rams have players listed as questionable, including Rob Havenstein, Troy Reeder, and Hunter Long. Meanwhile, the Vikings may miss Fabian Moreau and Pat Jones II, who are also listed as uncertain for the game.

Key factors that could decide the game

1. Quarterback performance: Both Matthew Stafford and Sam Darnold delivered solid regular seasons, but the playoffs demand excellence in every play. Stafford’s experience in critical games could be a crucial advantage.
2. Wide receiver efficiency: Cooper Kupp and Justin Jefferson are their quarterbacks’ favorite targets and could be the main protagonists of the night.
3. Defensive highlights: Both teams feature strong defenses. Aaron Donald of the Rams and Danielle Hunter of the Vikings could be instrumental in pressuring opposing quarterbacks and creating game-changing turnovers.

Interesting facts about the matchup

• The Vikings were the only NFL team to force turnovers in every regular-season game.
• Justin Jefferson, with 1,809 yards, was the top wide receiver in the NFL for 2024.
• Rams defensive star Aaron Donald recorded 14.5 sacks this season, reinforcing his status as one of the league’s top defenders.

Essential details of the match

• Venue: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
• Time: 10:00 PM (Brasilia time)
• Weather forecast: Clear night, temperature around 21°C
• Officiating: Led by John Hussey, a veteran with over 15 years of NFL experience

Impact of California wildfires

The relocation of the game from SoFi Stadium to State Farm Stadium was necessary due to severe wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area. This unforeseen situation posed logistical challenges for both teams but also highlighted solidarity among fans and the local community, who came together to support those impacted by the natural disasters.

Expectations and predictions

Although the Vikings enter with a superior campaign, the Rams hold a psychological edge, having already defeated their opponents this season. Analysts see the Vikings as favorites, primarily due to Justin Jefferson’s performance and their defensive consistency. However, Matthew Stafford’s playoff experience might be the deciding factor for the Rams.