Shanahan, McVay brush off travel plans as factor in Niners' win over Rams
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 27-7 in the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia, with the 49ers benefiting from traveling to Melbourne a week early to acclimate.
- Both coaches, Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay, downplayed the impact of travel schedules on the game's outcome, focusing instead on team preparation and performance.
- The 49ers' defense excelled under new coordinator Raheem Morris, limiting the Rams to their lowest scoring output with Matthew Stafford at quarterback, while Brock Purdy threw three touchdown passes.
- The team enjoyed their week in Melbourne, appreciating the local culture and facilities, though Shanahan expressed a preference for fewer long trips, favoring home games in San Francisco.
- Future NFL games in Australia will likely involve teams with local marketing rights, such as the Seahawks, Eagles, and Raiders, as the 49ers do not hold such rights and may be hesitant to return soon due to logistical challenges.
