What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Rams have adopted a unique travel strategy for their upcoming game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Unlike previous NFL teams, the Rams will arrive in London just one day before the game, on Saturday morning, for their Sunday
kickoff at Wembley Stadium. This approach deviates from the common practice of arriving earlier to adjust to the time difference. Rams coach Sean McVay explained that the team will travel overnight, have a walk-through upon arrival, and then rest before the game. This decision follows their week-long stay in Maryland, where they practiced at Camden Yards after their victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The Jaguars, in contrast, arrived in London earlier in the week to acclimate and build team camaraderie.
Why It's Important?
The Rams' decision to delay their arrival in London could set a new precedent in the NFL if successful. The league has been experimenting with international games since 2007, and travel logistics have been a significant consideration for teams. If the Rams perform well against the Jaguars, other teams might adopt this last-minute travel strategy, potentially altering how NFL teams approach international games. The outcome of this game could influence future travel plans and strategies, impacting team performance and logistics in international settings.
What's Next?
The Rams' performance against the Jaguars will be closely watched by other NFL teams. A victory could lead to more teams considering similar travel strategies for international games. Conversely, a loss might reinforce the traditional approach of arriving earlier to adjust to time differences. The Rams' decision could also prompt discussions on the balance between travel logistics and team performance, influencing future NFL scheduling and travel policies.