The Los Angeles Rams suffered a 27-7 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers in their 2026 NFL season opener on September 11 in Melbourne, Australia. The game marked the fewest points scored by the Rams since a 20-3 loss to the Green Bay Packers in November 2023.
Rams' offense stalls in season opener
Quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Rams' offense managed just 190 total yards and one touchdown against the 49ers. Stafford completed 12 of 24 passes for 128 yards, while the team's rushing attack added 62 yards and one touchdown. The 49ers, meanwhile, recorded 379 total yards and 27 points, converting 7 of 12 third downs and amassing 23 first downs.
Coach Sean McVay and the Rams arrived in Melbourne 28 hours before kickoff, a schedule that some analysts suggested may have contributed to the team's sluggish performance. The 49ers' defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, previously served as the Rams' defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2023, adding familiarity to the matchup.
Defensive concerns overshadow offense despite dominant unit
While the Rams' defense has drawn significant attention following the loss, the team's offensive struggles have also come under scrutiny. The Rams led the NFL in offense and scoring in 2025, with all starters returning for the 2026 season. The 27-7 defeat marked the fewest points scored by the Rams since a 20-3 loss to the Green Bay Packers in November 2023.
Analysts question Rams' preparation and 49ers' execution
ESPN's Stephen A. Smith suggested that the 49ers' victory may have been aided by the Rams' travel schedule, stating that the team's late arrival in Australia could have impacted their performance. Smith, who did not rank the 49ers among his top five NFL teams to start the season, cited the 28-hour travel window as a factor in his evaluation.
Defensive end Myles Garrett's injury raises concerns
The Rams' defensive end Myles Garrett suffered a knee injury during the game, prompting speculation about the team's long-term prospects. ESPN's Chris Canty, a Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants, suggested that the Rams' season could be jeopardized if Garrett does not return soon. Canty stated, "If [Myles Garrett] doesn't come back sooner rather than later, their season's going to be over."
The Rams' defense, which has undergone significant changes in the offseason, lost key players including Jared Verse, Cobie Durant, Ahkello Witherspoon, Roger McCreary, and Nick Hampton. The team added Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson, and Aaron Donald, though Donald's potential season debut has also been a topic of discussion.
Rams prepare for Monday Night Football against Giants
The Rams are scheduled to face the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, with McVay and his staff expected to address the team's offensive shortcomings. The loss to the 49ers has raised questions about the Rams' readiness for the 2026 season, despite their status as Super Bowl favorites.