Rams fall 27-7 to 49ers in NFL's first game in Australia
The Los Angeles Rams, favored to win the Super Bowl, were defeated by the San Francisco 49ers 27-7 in the league's inaugural Australian matchup, prompting coach Sean McVay to cite the team's performance as a humbling moment.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 15 of 25 passes for 155 yards with an interception as the Rams were shut out 27-7 by the San Francisco 49ers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The loss marked the NFL's first game in Australia and left the Rams, who entered the season as Super Bowl favorites, searching for answers on their return flight to Los Angeles.
Coach Sean McVay said the team's preparation, including a 16-hour flight and arrival the day before the game, was not the sole cause of the poor showing. > "I don’t believe that’s why we didn’t play well enough, I really don’t," McVay said. He added that the defeat was “one of the humbling moments” the team had experienced.
San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy threw for 205 yards and three touchdowns, while the 49ers' defense limited the Rams' offense and recorded no sacks on Myles Garrett, who cited a lingering knee issue. > "This was the worst version of myself that I’ve put out there," Garrett said.
Rams wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams combined for eight catches and 117 yards, but none resulted in scores. The 49ers also capitalized on special-teams play, with Deebo Samuel returning a kick 45 yards to set up a touchdown.
The Rams will review the performance over the next ten days before hosting the New York Giants, while questions remain about the health of defensive lineman Aaron Donald ahead of his season debut.