Matthew Stafford threw two touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Rams overwhelmed the Minnesota Vikings, sacking Sam Darnold an NFL playoff record-tying nine times to win 27-9 Monday night.

On Monday night, the Rams provided a welcomed, albeit temporary escape for their fans who are dealing with the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Led by a dominant defensive effort, the Rams took a 24-3 halftime lead en route to a 27-9 win over the Vikings in the NFC wild-card round.

Rookie Jared Verse returned a fumble for a 57-yard score for the Rams, who looked comfortable in their adopted home of State Farm Stadium from the first snap.