The San Francisco 49ers are set to kick off their 2026 season in style—heading down under to face the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia. While the full NFL schedule drops Thursday evening, this international showdown is already turning heads, and the early betting lines are in.

According to opening odds released for the September game, the 49ers enter as slight underdogs. The Rams are favored by 2.5 points, with the over/under set at a lofty 49.5. That total suggests we're in for a shootout, and given these two teams' high-powered offenses, it's hard to argue. International games have a history of flying over the total, and with two of the NFL's sharpest offensive minds calling plays, Melbourne could witness a fireworks display.

Both squads are projected playoff contenders. The Rams currently boast the shortest odds in the NFC to reach the postseason, while the 49ers sit fourth on FanDuel Sportsbook. Los Angeles is even the early Super Bowl favorite—a status fueled by offseason additions like Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, who turned a glaring weakness into a formidable strength. San Francisco, meanwhile, holds the eighth-best odds to hoist the Lombardi Trophy. Key acquisitions and the return of stars like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa from injury have oddsmakers high on the Niners.

It wouldn't be shocking if this Week 1 clash ends up as a preview of the NFC Championship. For now, though, all eyes are on Melbourne—where two of the league's best offenses and improved defenses will set the tone for the season. Whether you're repping the red and gold or the blue and yellow, this is a game you won't want to miss.