Raging shakeup: 49ers set for schedule issues thanks to Melbourne and Mexico City before release

22. Those two international games mean significant travel and time zone changes, all before the full fixture list is even released. The early start in Australia stands out, not just as a logistical challenge but as a storyline that will shape their preparations long before Week 1 arrives.

While it’s still early to predict how much of an advantage this might give them over Los Angeles, no team is going to complain about extra time to prepare for Week 1. That means they could head down under nearly two weeks before kickoff if they want, providing plenty of time to adjust and get ready. Again, whether this offers a real edge remains to be seen, but it’s another layer added by an unusual setup.

Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images No home advantage, even when listed at home The Melbourne game won’t give either side a home-field advantage, but at least Los Angeles can hang on to some normality by starting their pre-season routine back home while San Francisco is away overseas early on. This kind of chaotic lead-up is nothing new for Shanahan or his coaching staff. They’ve spent several years dealing with unique challenges beyond just player injuries – from health crises and severe weather conditions to odd travel plans like these.

The venue flips again later in November when San Francisco hosts Minnesota at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. It was supposed to be one of their standard Levi’s Stadium dates, except now it has become another week outside familiar territory due to NFL global expansion efforts aimed at increasing interest across North America and beyond. The season kicks off with an unusual trip, then Mexico’s game The season opens with the 49ers playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia.