Image Source: The Mercury News
The Thursday night football schedule opens with an unusual international matchup as the San Francisco 49ers meet the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia. The Week 1 game will stream on Netflix, but Bay Area fans do not need a Netflix subscription to watch the season opener.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:35 p.m. Pacific time on Thursday, September 10, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. NBC is broadcasting the game nationally, giving viewers in the Bay Area a free local television option.
Thursday Night Football Schedule: How to Watch 49ers vs. Rams
For viewers in Northern California, the simplest way to watch is through KNTV-TV, NBC’s Bay Area affiliate. The game will be available on channel 11 with an antenna or through a participating cable television provider.
- Television: NBC and KNTV-TV channel 11 in the Bay Area
- Streaming: Netflix, NBC Sports and NFL+
- Kickoff: 5:35 p.m. Pacific on Thursday, September 10
- Location: Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia
Fans who receive NBC through a cable or satellite package can also sign in to the NBC Sports app or website using their television provider credentials. That option allows subscribers to watch without adding another paid streaming service.
Netflix Streaming Details for the Season Opener
Netflix is carrying the game as part of its growing live sports lineup. Monthly Netflix plans range from $8.99 to $26.99, depending on the package and features selected. Fans who already subscribe can watch through the Netflix app on supported televisions, phones, tablets and streaming devices.
Viewers without Netflix can consider NFL+, whose plans start at $6.99 per month or $39.99 per year. The service streams local and primetime games on mobile devices, though fans should check device restrictions before kickoff.
With NBC airing the game locally, however, many Bay Area viewers may not need to pay for an additional service. An antenna or an existing television subscription could be enough to watch the 49ers and Rams at no extra cost.
Key Storylines Entering the Melbourne Matchup
The international opener carries major significance for both NFC West teams. The winner will gain an early advantage in the division standings, while the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks already moved into the lead after defeating New England in the league’s season opener on Wednesday.
San Francisco enters the game with several important players returning from season-ending injuries suffered last year. Tight end George Kittle, defensive end Nick Bosa and linebacker Fred Warner are all expected to make their returns for the 49ers.
Quarterback Brock Purdy will also draw attention as San Francisco begins the regular season on the other side of the world. The 49ers are seeking a strong start in a game that combines a divisional rivalry with the NFL’s first regular-season contest in Australia.
Los Angeles had hoped to feature veteran defensive tackle Aaron Donald after he signed with the team late last month to come out of retirement. However, Donald did not travel to Australia as he continues working his way back into playing shape.
A Historic International NFL Game
The matchup is more than a standard Thursday night contest. It marks the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia and has generated significant excitement in Melbourne. Supporters wearing 49ers red have gathered across the city, while events surrounding the game have helped introduce American football to a wider audience.
The Melbourne Cricket Ground, best known as one of the world’s iconic sporting venues, has been prepared for the historic game. The unusual setting also means many U.S. viewers will be watching during the afternoon and early evening rather than during the traditional Thursday night window.
For Bay Area fans, the viewing decision is straightforward: tune in to KNTV-TV, use NBC Sports with eligible television credentials, or stream through Netflix or NFL+. The game’s international location adds a memorable backdrop, but the stakes remain familiar—a rivalry game, an early NFC West test and a chance to begin the season with a win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Netflix to watch the 49ers vs. Rams?
No. Bay Area viewers can watch the game for free on NBC through KNTV-TV channel 11. Netflix is one streaming option, but it is not required for local viewers.
What time does the 49ers-Rams game start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:35 p.m. Pacific time on Thursday, September 10, 2026.
Where is the game being played?
The game will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia.
Can I stream the game without cable?
Yes. Netflix and NFL+ offer streaming options. NFL+ plans begin at $6.99 per month, while Netflix plans range from $8.99 to $26.99 per month.
