Airborne in Melbourne, what Rams fans can expect from Matthew Stafford & Co.

Just days away from the Los Angeles Rams' Week 1 showdown in Melbourne, Australia, anticipation is naturally mounting. What should we expect from offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase? Will Chris Shula's burly defense alter the team's offensive tactics?

Changes are coming. That's a certainty. But which changes occur are speculation for now. Nobody could have predicted LA's love of the tight end position last season. It's clear that the Rams are doubling down in 2026, as the roster boasts five tight ends. But the key to Week 1 is quarterback Matthew Stafford.

In the 2025 season opener against the Houston Texans, and later in two games against this year's Week 1 opponent, the San Francisco 49ers, Stafford was the offensive engine. In those three indicative contests, the Horns averaged just 17 rushes for 92 yards and a touchdown. Conversely, Stafford averaged 25-of-37 passes for 305 yards and 2.7 touchdowns.

Yes, Stafford is the guy to focus on in this one.

What should Rams fans expect in Melbourne, Australia?

While Puka Nacua is Steady-Freddie in the Rams' offense, veteran Davante Adams was the more effective target against the 49ers in 2025. In the two matchups Adams averaged 5.5 receptions for 85.5 yards, and hauled in a touchdown. Considering that Adams was the less productive receiver last year, that is significant.

In terms of the most Week 1 pressure, that mantle falls upon kicker Harrison Mevis. In last season's loss to San Francisco, Mevis's miss on a 53-yard field goal ultimately sent the game into overtime. The 49ers took advantage of that gaffe by making their own 41-yard kick to win it.

LA had a chance to tie the game, but the offense stalled at the 49ers' 20-yard line. On fourth and one, running back Kyren Williams was stopped for no gain.

Special teams remains a wild card, but Rams fans can be confident that the defense will be stingy. The 49ers scored 52 points on LA last season. That number should decrease dramatically.

Last season's secondary made 49ers backup quarterback Mac Jones look like a Pro Bowler, allowing 652 passing yards and five touchdowns to just one interception.

Good news: the Horns have ramped up both the pass rush and their coverage. Stafford won't be forced into winning shootouts as often this season.

Even so, he will be the lead dog on a team that plans to emerge victorious in Week 1. He remained relatively healthy and rested throughout training camp and the preseason. Fans could be in for a huge game from the offense. If the Rams can live up to the offseason hype, this game should result in a win.

Then again, the opponent is the 49ers, so take nothing for granted.

As always, thanks for reading.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow