This matchup of former coaching cohorts could come down to whether the Vikings can protect Sam Darnold against the fearsome Rams front.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell shared a heartfelt and encouraging message for Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay in light of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The message came just days before their teams faced off in the playoffs.

The league pivoted to its contingency plan after the deadly fires burned tens of thousands of acres around Los Angeles.

Following the vicious fires in the Los Angeles, CA, region that caused this Wild Card game to relocate, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell had a heartfelt message for Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams before their playoff matchup,