49ers spoil Aaron Rodgers' return to Jets in dominant win
The reigning NFC champions opened their season with a decisive win, despite the unexpected absence of star running back Christian McCaffrey, who was ruled out just before kickoff. The 49ers dominated possession, holding the ball for 38 minutes and 40 seconds compared to the Jets’ 21 minutes and 20 seconds.
Key Takeaways
McCaffrey’s Surprise Absence
Up until Friday, McCaffrey seemed confident he would play, despite calf and Achilles issues. However, he was ruled out just 90 minutes before the game, surprising many. His absence opened the door for backup running back Jordan Mason, who made his first start in three NFL seasons. Mason, who had never played more than 27 snaps in a game, shined in the spotlight, playing like a seasoned veteran and consistently outmaneuvering the Jets’ defense.
Mason set the tone for the game, finishing with career highs of 28 carries and 147 yards, including a touchdown. He became the sixth Niner since 1970 to rush for over 100 yards in his first start and the 10th undrafted 49er to accomplish this feat since Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017.
With upcoming games on artificial turf against the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, McCaffrey’s return remains uncertain. However, Mason’s strong performance provides the 49ers with confidence that they won’t need to rush McCaffrey back.
Quarterback Breakdown
With the running game in full swing, quarterback Brock Purdy didn’t need to carry the offense but was solid when called upon. He completed 19 of 29 passes for 231 yards without any touchdowns or interceptions. His performance would have looked even better if not for a few key drops, including a missed would-be touchdown by Brandon Aiyuk just before halftime.
Promising Trend
After struggling with run defense late in 2023, the 49ers made key adjustments by hiring defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen and adding depth to their defensive line. The changes paid off, as San Francisco held the Jets to just 68 rushing yards on 19 carries (an average of 3.6 yards per attempt).
Pivotal Play
With 8:56 left in the second quarter, the 49ers trailed 13-6 and faced a second-and-19 after a penalty. Purdy found wide receiver Jauan Jennings for a 22-yard gain, leading to a touchdown three plays later. San Francisco never looked back after taking the lead.
Next Game:at Minnesota Vikings (1 p.m. ET, Sunday)
For the Jets, Rodgers’ return didn’t go as planned. While they briefly led 7-3, their defense faltered, allowing the 49ers to score on eight consecutive drives. By the fourth quarter, coach Robert Saleh pulled Rodgers in favor of backup Tyrod Taylor.
Biggest Issue:
After a hot start, wide receiver Garrett Wilson disappeared from the offense, going un-targeted from the first quarter until the third, when a pass to him was intercepted. The lack of a reliable second option loomed large, as wideout Allen Lazard and tight end Tyler Conklin were nonfactors.
Troubling Trends
The Jets’ defensive front, supposedly their strongest unit, struggled against the run, allowing 180 rushing yards. The absence of strongside end John Franklin-Myers, who was traded in the offseason, was felt. Additionally, All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner was inexplicably benched for nine snaps in the second quarter, during which Purdy completed all six of his passes.
Next Game:at Tennessee Titans (1 p.m. ET, Sunday)v
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