49ers stun sluggish Rams for NFL s first game in Australia; college football Week 2 preview

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Published: 2026-09-11 • Permanent link

Pandemonium erupted at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the San Francisco 49ers stunned the Los Angeles Rams 31-20 in the NFL's inaugural game in Australia. The sold-out crowd of 100,000 fans witnessed a thrilling contest that saw the 49ers' quarterback, Brock Purdy, throw for 322 yards and two touchdowns. The Rams, meanwhile, struggled to find their footing, with quarterback Matthew Stafford completing just 22 of 35 passes for 262 yards and an interception.

The implications of this historic game extend far beyond the confines of the stadium, however. The NFL's foray into Australia is seen as a significant step towards expanding its global reach, and could potentially pave the way for future games in the region. For investors, the success of this game could be a harbinger of things to come, with analysts predicting a significant boost in ticket sales and merchandise revenue for the 49ers and Rams. As a result, the stock prices of both teams' parent companies are expected to see a significant uptick in the coming days.

The NFL's decision to hold a game in Australia is a culmination of years of planning and preparation, and marks a significant milestone in the league's efforts to grow its international presence. Since the 1980s, the NFL has been exploring ways to expand its reach beyond the United States, with various international games and events being held in London, Mexico City, and other locations. However, this is the first time the league has held a game in Australia, and the success of this contest could pave the way for future events in the region.

As the NFL looks to build on the success of this game, there are several key risks and opportunities that will be worth watching in the coming months. One major concern is the logistical challenge of staging a game in Australia, with the league facing significant costs and complexities in terms of travel, accommodation, and security. On the other hand, the success of this game could lead to a significant increase in international revenue for the NFL, with potential games and events being held in Australia and other regions in the future.