9.01amExpanded security gates work wellBy Jon PierikTo be honest, the extended security fencing today, and entry area, works well – perhaps better than our traditional method of having the security gates at the point of entry.The NFL’s extended system means the Yarra Park car park has been utilised better, for once, you get through security, there is more room to move on the concourse, where food stalls, merchandise outlets and Netflix’s outdoor broadcast have been popular spots.Police officers outside the MCG on Friday.Eddie Jim8.56amBadly-dressed boyfriends: take noteBy Courtney ThompsonThe Los Angeles Rams have entered the building.Now, I admit I had never heard of Myles Garrett until this week, so I certainly was not familiar with his game.But I am impressed by what I’m seeing as the football player walks into the stadium to make his debut for the Rams.In a cotton denim button-down overshirt by Celine, with a crisp white shirt worn underneath, navy trousers that aren’t too tight, sunglasses and cream sneakers by Margiela – this is my Platonic ideal of a tunnel walk fit.8.45am49ers star makes a smooth entranceBy Courtney ThompsonNow this is what I’m talking about.Deebo Samuel has arrived at the MCG in a suave look that plays with texture without going overboard.The wide receiver for the 49ers is dressed in a tailored double-breasted cream suit that he’s chosen to contrast with a leather black tie and embellished with a Chanel brooch (a nice touch).Finishing the look with black loafers and Balenciaga sunglasses, Samuel’s toting a Hermès Birkin 40 that would make most influencers jealous.It’s a look that is flashing dollar signs to anyone who knows where to look for them.8.40am‘Fix the potholes’: Carroll praises historic day, cops sledges from NFL fansBy Angus DelaneyVictorian Premier Ben Carroll said today’s game would add to Melbourne’s rich sporting legacy and boost the state economy.The government expects more than $300 million to pass through local businesses in a whirlwind weekend for Melbourne’s hospitality industry.A shot of the MCG this morning.Eddie JimAt a press conference by Birrarung Marr, a major riverside walkway to the MCG, Carroll said very few cities in the world could have pulled off hosting the game.“It’s going to be one of those events that people look back in history and say, ‘Where were you?’ or, ‘I was there’. It’s got that feel about it,” he said.8.31amAhead of Kylie’s grand final show, Dannii arrives at MCGBy Fiona ByrneThousands of people are already at the MCG. It is like a piece of American has landed in East Melbourne.Getting through the gates was akin to boarding a plane with bags being scanned and people being wanded.The pre-game scenes outside the MCG.Eddie JimWe have our first celebrity spotting – Dannii Minogue.Minogue is attending her first sporting match at the MCG.“I’ve never seen a sports game here, and I thought the first one was going to be coming to see my sister, and then this happened. I’m like, oh god, NFL, I’m in,” Minogue told this masthead.Her sister is, of course, Kylie Minogue, who is the headline act for the pre-game show at the AFL grand final on September 26.8.24amJerseys, jerseys everywhereBy Roy WardFrom the moment I stepped onto the train this morning, I’ve had NFL jerseys in my line of sight and that has continued throughout the walk to the MCG and through security into the stadium.As a long time fan of the NFL and a lover of jerseys, I’ve been on the lookout for the oldest or most unusual as these events always bring out a range of fans.A couple of early arrivals.Luke HemerSome of my favourites so far have been a guy wearing a Terrell Suggs Baltimore Ravens jersey, from the era when Reebok made official NFL jerseys, and I’ve counted more than 10 teams.Most players and NFL people claim every team will have a fan at each international game and that seems very likely.I reckon the jersey that I’ve seen the most, so far, was Brock Purdy’s 49ers jersey and, as expected, there is a huge number of 49ers fans around the stadium. The NFL says its statistics has the 49ers as the most supported team in Australia.I was tempted to bring out my Peyton Manning Colts jersey today but, under the terms of our media passes, we aren’t meant to wear NFL apparel, so that one has remained in the cupboard.8.15amCheck out the players’ fashion looksBy Courtney ThompsonWe officially have our first tunnel walk, courtesy of Christian McCaffrey, the running back of the San Francisco 49ers.McCaffrey has opted for an understated and definitely unassuming all-black outfit, accessorised with a simple necklace, watch and black shades. Also note: wired headphones just to signal while he might be laidback, he is still on-trend.For those who might be wondering why I’ll also be commentating the fashion looks at today’s match, the relationship between sport and fashion has become increasingly cosy over the past decade.And you see that nowhere more clearly than in the evolution of what we call “Tunnel Walk fashion”.7.59amUbers in demand as crowds descend on the ’GBy Eleanor Campbell and Jon PierikDemand for ride-share services is soaring as thousands of fans flock to the MCG ahead of today’s 10.35am kick-off.“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.This 49ers fan was keen. Getty ImagesSome passengers have reported Uber prices are 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.NFL fans descend on the MCG.Eddie Jim7.53amPrawn tacos and cocktails: Loading up on US snacksBy Andrea McGinnissMelburnians 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.Prawn taco and Paloma cocktail at the Builders Arms Hotel.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.7.47amHow to watch on TV, key playersBy Zoey DucheneWhether 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.The MCG is ready for today’s NFL match.APWe also go through the players to watch on both sides, and why the quarterbacks 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.1 of 2