Kevin O’Connell was previously offensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams and became the Minnesota Vikings head coach three days after helping the Rams win the Super Bowl in 2022.

“[Rams head coach] Sean McVay used to use the term ‘we compete with our schemes, but we win with our people’,” said O’Connell. “I believe that we’ve done some similar things here, but at the same time this is our version.

“It’s always great to see those folks, Sean is one of my best friends, but it’s the play-offs. There’s really no room for emotion, so make no mistake about it, we’re trying to do everything we can to win.”

Because of the wildfires in LA, tonight’s game has been switched to Arizona and O’Connell, who grew up in the San Diego area, added: “Southern California is near and dear to my heart. I’ve got
so many relationships there, not just with the Rams, but people
from growing up that I know have been impacted.

“There’s a couple friends of
mine that did lose homes in the Palisades fire. It’s a
tragedy. My thoughts and prayers have been with all of those folks
and the first responders.

“In regards to our game, we’re going to get on a plane, it’s just where’s the plane going to land. The mentality you have to have
is that you’ll play anywhere, anytime, and we’re going to put our best foot forward.”