The Rams' Historic Move to Los Angeles

Name: The Rams' Historic Move to Los Angeles
Start: 1946-09-29
Location: Unspecified

Introduction to the NFL's Expansion in 1946

In 1946, a significant chapter in American football's history was written when the Los Angeles Rams played their first game in Los Angeles, marking a new era for the NFL. Previously based in Cleveland, the Rams became the first professional football franchise to call the City of Angels home. This move not only reshaped the Rams' future but also had a lasting impact on the popularity of the NFL on the West Coast.

Los Angeles Rams' Origins and Move

Founded in 1936, the Rams initially played in Cleveland as a charter member of the AFL before joining the NFL in 1937. After years of struggle and attendance issues in Ohio, the Rams found a new opportunity by relocating to Los Angeles in 1946 due to an evolving sports landscape and a burgeoning fan base eager for professional football.

The Significance of the 1946 Game

The Rams' first official game in Los Angeles occurred on October 20, 1946, against the Philadelphia Eagles at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. This was a pivotal moment not only for the franchise but for football as it showcased the growing appeal of the NFL outside of traditional markets. The game marked the dawning of a new era where the NFL began to cultivate a fan base in California.

Impact on the NFL Landscape

The Rams' migration to Los Angeles had a profound influence on the trajectory of the NFL. With the success of the franchise in a large market, it paved the way for other teams to consider moving to bigger cities with more lucrative opportunities.

Establishing NFL’s Presence on the West Coast

The Rams' presence in Los Angeles helped solidify the NFL’s expansion into the West Coast, an area that would grow to become one of the league's most important markets. Their games attracted attention, forming a foundation for generations of fans in the region and leading to the establishment of several other franchises in California.

Cultural Shift in Football Fandom

With the Rams in Los Angeles, the culture surrounding football began to shift. Hollywood celebrities frequently attended games, and the glamour associated with Los Angeles attracted media attention, helping to elevate the NFL's status and appeal. Football was no longer just a regional pastime; it became a national spectacle accessible to fans in sunny California.

Fun Fact

The Los Angeles Rams' Mascot

Did you know that the Los Angeles Rams were the first team in the NFL to adopt a mascot? In the 1980s, they introduced a costumed character, "Rampage", who became an exciting addition at games, symbolizing the team spirit and engaging the fans.