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McVay's 'get-back' coach not at Super Bowl after medical procedure

Scott Cunningham / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay's personal sideline handler won't be in Atlanta on Sunday, as "get-back" coach Ted Rath didn't make the trip to Super Bowl LIII following a recent medical procedure, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rath, who's officially employed as the Rams' director of strength training and performance, rose to social media fame over the past two weeks with the release of an NFL Films piece chronicling his game-day work on the team's sideline keeping McVay off the playing field and out of harm's way.

McVay recently lamented Rath's absence, as he also missed the NFC Championship Game victory over the New Orleans Saints.

"It's tough because he's such a great competitor and he's so instrumental in us getting here," McVay said. "We love him. I know the players and coaches miss him when he's not here with us, but he's with us in spirit. He's done a great job of helping us get to this point and he knows that."

Rath's game-day duties are expected to primarily fall on assistant strength and conditioning coach Dustin Woods for a second consecutive game.

"Dustin will be my backup get-back guy, so he'll be pulling me back," McVay said. "And hopefully, I have a little bit more self-control."

McVay's become well-known for his energy and passion on the sideline during games and will officially become the youngest head coach to participate in a Super Bowl on Sunday.

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