49ers Overcome Jet Lag After Australia Trip Ahead of Dolphins Game

San Francisco 49ers players and coaches are reporting a return to normalcy after a taxing trip to Melbourne, Australia, for the NFL's historic International Series game against the Los Angeles Rams. The team is focused on hosting the Miami Dolphins this Sunday, aiming to shake off any lingering effects of the approximately 8,000-mile journey and the 17-hour time difference.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan admitted to feeling unwell for several days upon their return. Tight end George Kittle described adjusting back to his normal sleep schedule as “really weird,” while linebacker Fred Warner noted he was groggy for only about a day before feeling ready to compete. “And now we’re ready to rock,” Warner stated.

The 49ers acknowledged the impact of the travel on their bodies but emphasized their focus on preparation. Despite the challenges, the team secured a 20-point victory against the Rams. They are now looking to replicate that performance against the Dolphins, with the home-field advantage and a full week of adjusted routines.

Many players resumed personal activities soon after returning. Shanahan was able to attend his son's high school game shortly after arriving home. Kittle played golf and watched his college team, the Iowa Hawkeyes, secure a victory. The team returned to their facility on Monday for film review and weight training but did not resume field practice until Wednesday, allowing them five days to recover after their touchdown.

“And it actually is our normal schedule now because our times were a little bit different in Australia with the travel to the practice field and stuff,” Shanahan said. “So, it’s real normal now.”

The international trip necessitated the cancellation of the team's annual preseason party, a tradition held the weekend before the regular season. Shanahan had jokingly suggested the flight back would serve as their celebration, but many players, including running back Christian McCaffrey and Kittle, ended up sleeping for most of the journey.

McCaffrey noted the training staff provided a clear regimen for the three days following their landing, dictating when to sleep and other recovery activities. This structured approach, combined with the team’s overall focus, has led to a belief that they are adequately prepared for their upcoming matchup.

Despite potential excuses like jet lag or injuries, the 49ers are confident in their ability to perform. Key players have reported feeling recovered from past injuries. Kittle stated he has full confidence in his Achilles and calf, experiencing no setbacks since his January surgery. Warner confirmed he felt like himself in his first game back since fracturing his ankle last season, experiencing