The Los Angeles Rams touched down in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday morning local time, just before dawn, as they prepare for their NFL regular-season matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The team’s arrival marks the first time the league has played in Australia, with the game set for Thursday night. The Rams, who flew in from the United States, have about 28 hours to adjust to the time difference before taking on the 49ers.
The game, which will be broadcast to a global audience, has drawn significant attention, with betting sites like Kalshi offering predictions. Traders project the Rams as strong favorites, giving them a 64% chance to win, while analysts suggest Los Angeles is the best pick due to their preparation and performance. The 49ers, meanwhile, may be forced into a risky strategy to counter the Rams’ strengths.
Ahead of the game, Netflix released a hype trailer directed by Peter Berg, adding to the anticipation. The Rams’ confidence in their travel plan remains high, with coach Sean McVay expressing optimism about the team’s readiness. The 49ers’ challenge will be to adapt quickly to the unfamiliar conditions and match the Rams’ momentum.
The game is expected to be a key moment for the NFL’s expansion into international markets, with fans from around the world watching the first-ever regular-season match in Australia.
