The San Francisco 49ers launched their new NFL season with a commanding 32-19 victory over the New York Jets at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Monday. Demonstrating formidable form on their home turf, the 49ers dominated the field, particularly in rushing yards, leading 180-68 despite the absence of their star running back Christian McCaffrey.
Stepping up in McCaffrey’s stead, Jordan Mason delivered an impressive performance, carrying the ball 28 times for 147 yards and scoring a touchdown. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel added to the offense with a rushing touchdown and contributed five catches for 54 yards. Alongside Samuel, receiver Jauan Jennings, fullback Kyle Juszczyk, and tight end George Kittle each surpassed 40 receiving yards, all connecting on passes over 20 yards from quarterback Brock Purdy.
Purdy, showcasing his playmaking abilities, completed 19 of 29 passes for 231 yards. While he didn’t throw any touchdown passes, his leadership on the field facilitated the 49ers’ swift pace, culminating in a game that concluded in under three hours.
Kicker Jake Moody was instrumental in extending the 49ers’ lead, successfully converting six field goals, including a remarkable 53-yarder, and two extra-point kicks.
The Jets, facing a relentless 49ers defense, substituted starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers with backup Tyrod Taylor with over four minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The Jets initially showed promise with running back Breece Hall rushing into the end zone in the first quarter. However, sustaining offensive momentum proved challenging throughout the game.
Rodgers completed 13 of 21 passes for 167 yards, throwing his first touchdown as a Jet in the third quarter with a connection to wide receiver Allen Lazard—his former teammate from the Green Bay Packers. Rodgers’ momentum was hindered by an interception by 49ers linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles in the third quarter.
In the game’s closing moments, Lazard secured a second touchdown pass from Taylor, providing a late boost to the Jets’ score but falling short of altering the game’s outcome.
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49ers begin new NFL season by crashing Jets at Levi's Stadium
cgtn.com
