NFL Melbourne LIVE: San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams count down to historic MCG clash as bumper crowd builds

Demand for rideshare services is soaring as thousands of fans flock to the MCG ahead of today’s 10:35am kickoff.

“I’ve been dropping people off since 2am,” Uber driver Leo told 3AW. He was ferrying security, lighting, and catering crews to the stadium through the early hours.

Some passengers have reported Uber prices up to two to three times higher than their normal trip.
Trams and trains are running every two to four minutes to and from the ground, with the crowd expected to reach up to 100,000.

The extended security perimeter, which runs 30m from the ground, appears to be working well. At first glance, it seems odd, but there haven’t been any issues. Many fans have followed the advice to not bring a bag at all.

Others have carried their goods in clear plastic bags, as per the strict NFL terms and conditions.

Melburnians love an event. And this is a biggie. How else can you explain to outsiders why the MCG is almost sold-out for an NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and LA Rams on a chilly school day morning?

Also, NFL games go for ages, so you’ll need snacks.

Whether you’re into the on-field action or not, there’s still plenty to sink your teeth into, with bakers, bars and hotels dishing up some creative specials to keep the celebrations going, before and after the game. There are tacos. There are cocktails. Here are nine places to check out.

Whether you’re a hard core NFL fan or new to the game, we’re here to help.

Here’s your game-day guide, including how to follow the game on TV (Channel Seven is the free-to-air broadcaster) with ESPN and Netflix streaming to a global audience.

We also go through the players to watch on both sides, and why the quarter-backs are such a big deal.

There are some important things to know about NFL game culture, too.

Here’s everything you need to know to be primed for kick-off.

Click here to read the full story.

G’day everyone, and welcome to our AFL … wait, scratch that … our NFL live blog for the first regular-season game in Australia.

Fans have been streaming to the MCG precinct since the early hours of the morning. The Rams, who were early to bed last night, and 49ers are continuing their final preparations for the big game, with kick-off set for 10.30am AEST, or 5.30pm back in California.

We will have plenty of coverage on not just the game, but also the Jonas Brothers’ half-time show and all the fanfare from tailgates across the city as Aussie and US fans take in this historic occasion with 100,000 fans tipped to be there in a transformed MCG for the contest.