The Los Angeles Rams’ offense struggled significantly in their season-opening 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, raising concerns ahead of their upcoming Monday night game against the New York Giants. Despite returning every starter from a unit that led the NFL in offense and scoring in 2025, including reigning MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford, the Rams managed only 190 total yards and a single touchdown in the defeat.

The offensive output marked the fewest points scored by the Rams since a 20-3 loss to the Green Bay Packers late last season. Analysts attributed part of the team’s sluggish performance to the decision to arrive in Australia just one day before the game, which appeared to leave the players at a physical and mental disadvantage.

While much of the media attention following the loss has centered on the defense—highlighted by edge rusher Myles Garrett’s knee surgery and the potential return of star lineman Aaron Donald—the offensive setbacks have become a pressing issue for head coach Sean McVay. The Rams, considered Super Bowl contenders, now face pressure to recalibrate and regain their prior offensive form.

Contributing to the challenge was the 49ers’ defensive strategy, orchestrated by Raheem Morris, who served as the Rams’ defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2023 and remains a close confidant of McVay. Morris’s intimate knowledge of the Rams’ schemes and personnel proved instrumental in limiting their offensive production. Last December, Morris’s Atlanta Falcons overcame the Rams 27-24, underscoring his ability to devise effective game plans against his former team.

As the Rams prepare for their Monday night matchup, they will aim to overcome the early stumbles on offense while dealing with ongoing defensive personnel uncertainties. The performance in Melbourne has introduced fresh scrutiny on how the Rams can reclaim the high-powered offense that distinguished their 2025 campaign.