Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and head coach Sean McVay displayed signs of fatigue and displeasure upon arriving in Melbourne, Australia, on Wednesday for their upcoming NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Footage shared by NFL Australia & NZ showed Stafford with a tired expression while waiting for his luggage, and McVay with a visibly peeved look as he watched for his belongings. This arrival comes after a 15-hour flight from Southern California.
While Stafford and McVay appeared unenthusiastic, some Rams players seemed more pleased to be in Australia. Wide receiver Puka Nacua was observed with a wide grin, and another unnamed player was seen yawning.
The team's brief two-day stay in Australia has drawn scrutiny, with many fans and observers suggesting the franchise would have preferred to play the game elsewhere rather than forfeit a home game for such a long trip. In contrast, the 49ers arrived nearly a week prior to acclimate to the time difference and engage with local culture.
"If you guys ask me any more questions about it, I'm kind of tired," McVay told reporters earlier in the week, expressing his weariness with questions about the team's travel strategy. He stated the team's plan was designed to keep players in their normal rhythm and routine.
The Rams departed Los Angeles around 10 p.m. Tuesday and landed Thursday morning local time. The game is scheduled to kick off at 5:35 p.m. PT on Thursday night.