As the Los Angeles Rams prepare to face the San Francisco 49ers at SoFi Stadium on Thursday night, Coach Sean McVay is hopeful that Rams fans will fill the stands to support the home team. Despite a robust performance this season, with a 3-1 record and a near-win against the Eagles in Philadelphia, the Rams face the challenge of a divided local fan base.
Historically, whenever the 49ers come to town, SoFi Stadium sees a significant presence of 49ers fans, sometimes overwhelming the atmosphere intended for the Rams. Coach McVay, acknowledging the passionate fan base of the 49ers, ties it back to his grandfather, John McVay, who contributed significantly to their early successes.
Los Angeles, having been without an NFL team for two decades, left a gap that allowed local football fans to form loyalties elsewhere. Consequently, many Los Angeles residents became 49ers supporters during the Rams’ absence. Although the Rams have successfully cultivated a growing fan base, the historical allegiance to the 49ers persists strongly among many in the area.
This dynamic brings a unique challenge, as plenty of 49ers fans will likely attend Thursday’s game, not as long-distance travelers from San Francisco, but as locals just making a short trip to the stadium. As the Rams aim to solidify their status as the hometown favorite in this renewed rivalry, local support during home games will be crucial. McVay is optimistic that the Rams’ recent successes will draw more fans to support them and build a strong home-field advantage.