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Shanahan McVay Dismiss Travel Factor After Niners Rams Win

ESPN NFL •
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Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay downplayed travel plans as a factor in the San Francisco 49ers' 27-7 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne. Both coaches minimized the impact of the Niners arriving a week early, stating they did not believe different arrival times influenced the outcome. Despite the unusual preparation, Shanahan emphasized focusing on the 3½ hours of preparation, while McVay took responsibility for the loss.

The 49ers' defense held the Rams to their lowest scoring output with Matthew Stafford at quarterback, and the offense looked fresh, with Brock Purdy throwing three touchdown passes. Raheem Morris made his 49ers debut as defensive coordinator. The Niners' early arrival allowed players to acclimate at the Park Hyatt Hotel, utilizing recovery tools and exploring the city.

Receiver Mike Evans and tight end George Kittle praised the preparation, with Kittle noting the team had so much fun drinking coffee and hanging out for the whole week. Running back Christian McCaffrey even got a haircut, being told it "looks cracker." The Rams are the first preseason Super Bowl favorite in 50 years to lose their season opener by 20 points or more.