Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has been tight-lipped about the travel plans to Australia, but finally gave a small look at what the plan could be for the team.
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has been very tight-lipped about what the travel plans will be for the team as they are set to embark on the NFL's first game in Australia.
When McVay had been asked previously when the team would fly out, the head coach appeared to be defensive. Whether that is due to his not allowing his opponents to copy his methods that would give the upper hand, he has finally given insight into the unique nature of how the organization comes to its decisions on international travel.
During media availability on Tuesday, McVay was once again asked about the plans for Australia, and he spoke about keeping players in their rhythm.
"I would say the essence of what it really comes from is what we learned in COVID that the more that we can keep guys in their normal rhythm and routine the better off," McVay said "And then there are certain things based on time zones, time allotted to adjust your Circadian Rhythm, but I'm a big believer that you know how long can we keep our players in a comfortable rhythm."
McVay may not have given up many trade secrets, but he did point to an important aspect of the Rams' plans. The idea is to ensure players do not see their normal work routines ruined by the fact that they need to fly over 15 hours to a new country.
Sleeping is also a hugely important aspect of life and the lives of football players. Any player who does not get enough shut-eye may play in a far more sluggish manner.
Rams receiver Davante Adams was one of those players, as he reportedly could not get back to sleep after waking up at 4 AM British time.
Los Angeles has an important Week 1 matchup to get through. On top of having to play in international territory, they will be taking on the San Francisco 49ers.
Starting off undefeated is one thing, but starting off undefeated against a divisional rival that could pay off at the end of the season is an entirely different kind of important. Players not being rested for such a game is likely a reason why McVay has been so adamant about not divulging his plans regarding when they will travel.
What is known is that the Rams have developed their own travel science that was devised by McVay. This science was utilized when the team traveled to London to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025, resulting in a 35-7 sizable victory.
Starting the 2026 season off in such a way would be a big morale boost for the Rams and a way to kick off their leading the NFC West.
McVay takes his science very serious, which is likely why it is his best kept secret.
"Some of those things are outside of my area of expertise that I've been educated on, but everything that we do is geared towards what we think is best for our players. That will always be the case as long as I'm fortunate enough to be the coach here," McVay said.
The Rams are set for an important season, one that will see the team once again battle it out with their NFC rivals, including the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. Any way that McVay can allow the team to get the upper hand is and will always be kept to himself, no matter how odd it sounds.
