Rams and 49ers bring NFL’s international push to Melbourne
The NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia will test two divisional rivals’ contrasting approaches to long-distance travel.
The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers are scheduled to meet in Melbourne in the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia, turning the fixture into both a divisional contest and a test of the league’s international expansion strategy.
The teams have adopted sharply different travel plans. The 49ers reportedly arrived in Australia more than a week before the game, while the Rams planned to fly in the day before. The effect of those choices is likely to remain part of the discussion after the match.
The Rams enter with significant expectations after falling short in the NFC Championship Game. Their reported off-season additions include defensive end Myles Garrett and cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. Aaron Donald has also reportedly returned from retirement, although he will not play in Melbourne.
San Francisco will rely on a core that includes quarterback Brock Purdy, running back Christian McCaffrey, tackle Trent Williams, receiver Mike Evans and tight end George Kittle. Coach Kyle Shanahan has an 11–7 regular-season record against Rams coach Sean McVay, while McVay won their only playoff meeting.
The Rams and 49ers split their two meetings last season. For the Rams, an opening defeat would add pressure to the expectations created by their off-season recruitment and the debate over their late arrival. For the 49ers, the game offers an early opportunity to challenge the assumption that Los Angeles is the stronger side.
