49ers Lose a Home Game, Will Play Broncos in London

San Francisco 49ers fans will only get to see seven regular-season home games in 2010, as the 49ers will "host" the Denver Broncos in London in October.

The Broncos announced on the team's web site that they will travel to London for a road game against the 49ers on Sunday, October 31.

Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said he's excited to be taking his team to Wembley Stadium:

"The Denver Broncos are honored to play in London against the 49ers as part of the NFL's International Series. Our organization has been fortunate to play in several American Bowls in previous years, including one in London, but to play a regular-season game overseas is truly special.

"It's a wonderful, historic opportunity for our franchise and will be an unforgettable experience for our players, coaches and fans. I'm excited for the game in London and am thrilled that the Broncos will be part of the NFL's continued international growth."

Of course, it's easy for Bowlen to be happy about it because his franchise gets overseas exposure without having to lose a home game. It's a lot less exciting for 49ers fans, especially season-ticket holders, that they'll now get one fewer home game to attend.

And considering that San Francisco sold out every game in 2009, it's weird that they're now getting only seven games in 2010. Five NFL teams -- Detroit, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Oakland and St. Louis -- failed to sell out all of their 2009 home games, and it would be reasonable to move one of their 2010 games to London. But taking a home game away from the 49ers doesn't make a lot of sense.