The 49ers convincingly beat the Rams 27-7. Of course, San Francisco had more time to acclimate to the 17-hour time difference between California and Melbourne, arriving nearly a week ahead of kickoff. Meanwhile, the Rams took a different—and widely criticized—approach, arriving just a day before the game.
"I think it was definitely a matter of us feeling like we got stronger as the game went on, versus the opposing team," 49ers linebacker Fred Warner said after the game. "It felt like they kind of withered away. And so ... our plan was great, coming out here early, and all the resources they gave us to be successful for today is what gave us the chance to win this game."
McVay didn't shy away from being honest about his experience while speaking to reporters this week, but made it clear that he'd rather put the trip to Australia behind him.
"It's almost like you try to do the 'Men in Black' thing, where you say, 'Hey, I don't remember what happened. That was so long ago,'" McVay said. "We're not playing in Australia ever again, I hope. Not because it wasn't a great atmosphere—that'll get taken out of context."
His comments have sparked discussion on social media, with many believing the coach is solely blaming the game being played in Australia rather than the Rams' plan heading into the contest.
McVay added that he is confident the Rams will move past the experience and focus on their next challenge rather than dwelling on the decisions made ahead of Week 1 and the ensuing loss to the 49ers.
The Rams and 49ers will meet again on December 13 at Levi's Stadium. For now, though, both teams are focused on their next task. The 49ers host the Miami Dolphins this weekend and are looking to start the season 2-0, while the Rams look to avoid remaining the only NFC West team without a win.
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