The Los Angeles Rams are adopting an unconventional approach to combat jet lag for their upcoming NFL season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. Instead of arriving days in advance to acclimate, the Rams plan to fly nearly 16 hours, crossing the international date line, and check into their hotel with the intention of sleeping through the initial period of adjustment.
This strategy, developed with the team's sports medicine and performance staff, contrasts sharply with that of the 49ers, who have already been on the ground in Melbourne for an extended period to adjust to the local time. Rams head coach Sean McVay stated the team's theory is to "assault" jet lag by not allowing the players' bodies enough time to register the significant time difference.
"We'll sleep through the night, and then we'll get there and have kind of a rhythm," McVay said. The nearly 16-hour flight will be on a charter with full lay-flat beds for all 53 players, a key component in ensuring rest. The team also consulted with individuals from other sports and those experienced in similar long-distance travel.
This tactic is not entirely new for the Rams. Last season, after a game in Baltimore, the team flew to London the night before playing the Jacksonville Jaguars. That strategy preceded a dominant 35-7 victory for the Rams. Quarterback Matthew Stafford expressed confidence in the plan, noting its previous success. "I felt like it worked out for us. I think guys enjoy being home. I feel confident in the way we're going about it and we'll be ready to rock and roll come Friday morning," he said.
However, the journey to Australia presents a more significant challenge than the trip to London due to the longer flight duration and more extreme time difference. The outcome of the game will likely be scrutinized in relation to the travel strategy. A win could be seen as validation of McVay's approach, while a sluggish performance might lead to questions about why the 49ers opted for early acclimation.
McVay, however, is focused on execution rather than the debate surrounding the travel. "I'm not really worrying about it because I know what our plans are. We're going to follow that plan, and then we're going to focus on our preparation and try to be at our best and go swing," he said.
Wide receiver Davante Adams also voiced support for the team's decision, referencing the London game's success. "We did the same thing in London and we went out there and handled business," Adams said.
All players are expected to make the flight, with McVay confirming that Puka Nacua and Alaric Jackson are anticipated to be eligible to play. The decision regarding Aaron Donald's participation was still being determined on a day-to-day basis.
The Rams are scheduled to depart late Tuesday night, arriving in Melbourne on Thursday local time for the game on Friday. The effectiveness of this gamble against jet lag will become clear by Thursday evening, Australia time.