The NFL’s push to become a truly global league reached another milestone this week when the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers traveled to Melbourne for the league’s first-ever regular-season game in Australia. The historic matchup brought a viral television moment back into the spotlight, reminding fans that some on-air mistakes never truly disappear.
Ally Langdon’s “69ers” blooper resurfaces ahead of Melbourne game
An old clip from Australia’s Today show originally aired in 2022, featuring news personality Ally Langdon discussing an upcoming NFL game. During the segment, Langdon accidentally referred to the San Francisco 49ers as the “San Francisco 69ers.”
We’re watching some footy game in America, the Rams and the San Francisco 69ers play some rubbish game,
Langdon said during the segment.
The slip-up immediately sent her co-host into fits of laughter. As the segment continued, the co-host appeared to struggle to regain composure, with the unexpected mistake turning an ordinary sports discussion into a memorable television moment.
Viral clip finds third life on social media
The blooper quickly went viral when it first surfaced in 2022. It reappeared online in early 2023 and has now found a third life on social media thanks to the NFL’s long-awaited trip to Australia. This time, however, the timing feels especially appropriate.
In a separate NFL storyline that also gained traction this week, Deshaun Watson appeared to forget a brutal loss to the Buffalo Bills weeks later, asking reporters, Which Buffalo game?
NFL international expansion adds Australia to growing list
For years, the NFL has invested heavily in expanding its international footprint through games in London, Germany, Brazil, Mexico and other markets. Australia became the latest stop on that journey when the Rams and 49ers brought regular-season football to Melbourne, generating significant excitement among local fans.
49ers embrace the moment with fan events and injury optimism
The 49ers embraced the moment throughout the week. The organization sent members of its famed Gold Rush cheerleading squad to Australia for fan events, including a world-record attempt that helped build anticipation for the historic contest.
On the field, San Francisco entered the game with encouraging injury news. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated that both All-Pro tight end George Kittle and star pass rusher Nick Bosa were trending toward playing after recovering from major offseason injuries.
Rams navigate 15-hour flight to Melbourne
The Rams faced their own challenge simply getting to Australia. The team’s 15-hour flight from the United States generated headlines throughout the week, with images of players arriving in Melbourne drawing widespread attention. Head coach Sean McVay defended the travel schedule and expressed confidence that the team would be prepared despite the lengthy journey.
