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49ers vs. Rams prediction, odds, time: 2026 NFL Australian Game expert picks
CBS Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, NFC West rivals and Super Bowl contenders, will open the 2026 NFL season with a game in Melbourne, Australia, with the Rams favored by 3.5 points.
- The Rams aim for their third Super Bowl appearance in nine seasons, while the 49ers seek their third in eight seasons; notable absence includes Rams star Aaron Donald, who did not travel to Australia.
- Both teams had strong offensive performances in 2025, with the Rams leading the league in total yards and points per game, and the 49ers also ranking in the top 10 offensively.
- Expert sports bettor Micah Roberts, with over 20 years in the sportsbook industry, favors the game going over the 48.5 combined points total due to the offensive strengths of both teams.
- Key players include Rams MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford and 49ers veterans Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey, who led San Francisco in both rushing and receiving last season.
