Defending NFL champions, LA Rams take on Tampa Bay, looking to turn things around on Sunday Night. However, this game will go down as a special one for Rams head coach Sean McVay.

McVay, the youngest head coach to get his hands on the Vince Lombardi trophy, lost his grandfather and fellow California football royalty at 91.

John McVay entered the NFL world through a coaching role similar to his grandson. He was the Giants’ head coach before he moved on to being the brain behind the success of the 49ers. 

Sean McVay following the legacy of his grandfather

John McVay started his short-lived coaching career with a gig in New York. He was the Giants’ head coach for three years, where he finished with a losing record. His grandson makes a more successful coach. However, John McVay built an empire in football with the 49ers alongside Bill Walsh, winning five super bowls. During his tenure, he served in different roles in the San Francisco front office.

The Rams and 49ers have their state rivalry, but on the passing of the legendary General manager, the Rams paid their respects to the great man. They recognized his achievements and the impact he has had on the league.

Sean McVay also paid his tributes to his late grandfather. The defending champions’ head coach said, “He’s the leader of our family, and I can’t think of a better example to follow in terms of the path that he set, the legacy that he left for our family.”

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As he looks to live up to his grandfather’s name, he mentioned how without his grandad, he might not have been where he is today. 

Sean learning from the best

A tip from his grandfather has also been very close to Sean’s heart. It is something he has inculcated within him as he grows as a coach. “I think the most important thing that I learned a long time ago from my grandpa is when you’ve got the guys at those veterans spots that set the tone and show what it looks like, that becomes the standard. You are either up to the standard day-in and day out, or you’re not.”

He talked about this major learning from his grandpa. Man management is one of the important and intricate roles of a coach. Luckily for Sean, he didn’t have to go too far from home to master this trait. His grandfather was one of the best role models to take this up. 

Being in the front office for the 49ers for twenty-two long years, John McVay definitely knew a thing or two about bringing the best out of his players. Sean has incorporated this and looks to build on it as he became the youngest Super Bowl-winning coach. This feat is massive for any coach and definitely for the McVay family.

As the Rams look to improvise on their poor form, Sean McVay will look to his guardian angel in the skies. He will look to pay tribute to his grandad in the right way by getting one past the Bucs. As Tom Brady looks to return to form, this added personal motivation for Sean might spoil the GOAT’s plans.

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