Heavier-than-normal traffic is expected Thursday along Interstate 10 in Phoenix and Loop 101 in Glendale, posing a game day challenge for East Valley drivers heading to State Farm Stadium for a 5:15 p.m. kickoff.

The Arizona Department of Transportation suggests fans traveling from the East Valley consider using westbound/northbound Loop 202 to bypass I-10 in the downtown Phoenix area.

The Cardinals game against the New Orleans Saints combined with normal Thursday commuter traffic toward the West Valley will  clog some typical travel routes, ADOT officials said.

“Drivers should allow extra time and try to arrive in the area near the stadium early,” transportation officials said in a release.

According to Glendale, stadium parking lots will open at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20.

Glendale will close Loop 101 on-ramps from approximately 2 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. to assist with traffic flow. Those affected will be northbound on-ramps at Indian School Road, Camelback Road and Cardinals Way and the southbound on-ramp at Glendale Avenue.

“Fans also should practice patience after the game and be prepared for heavier freeway traffic along sections of Loop 101 and I-10 in the West Valley once fans have left the stadium,” ADOT officials said.

Glendale will close the southbound Loop 101 off-ramps at Cardinals Way and Camelback Road from about 7:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The northbound and southbound Loop 101 HOV off-ramps at Maryland Avenue will be closed from 5:45 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. as part of the city’s post-game traffic plan.