Rams to Face 49ers in NFL's First Regular-Season Game in Australia

The Los Angeles Rams will play against the San Francisco 49ers on September 10 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia. Despite being the designated home team, the Rams may face a crowd that favors the 49ers, who are reportedly the most popular team in Australia, according to figures provided by the NFL to The Athletic. The Rams rank seventh in popularity. NFL Australia and New Zealand general manager Charlotte Offord noted that the 49ers' popularity stems from their success in the 1980s, a time when many Australian viewers began following the NFL. The 49ers are planning a week of events in Melbourne to engage their fan base, while thousands of their fans are expected to attend the game. The Rams, however, have the opportunity to attract new fans, as they bring a strong roster led by quarterback Matthew Stafford and a formidable defense featuring players like Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald. The 100,000-seat MCG may initially be filled with 49ers supporters, but a strong performance from the Rams could help them gain new fans in Australia.