The San Francisco 49ers dominated the New York Jets 32-19 in their season opener, spoiling Aaron Rodgers’ highly anticipated return from a torn Achilles tendon. The game highlighted the 49ers’ depth and adaptability, as they overcame the absence of star running back Christian McCaffrey, who was a last-minute scratch due to calf and Achilles issues.Undrafted free agent Jordan Mason seized the opportunity, delivering a career-best performance with 147 rushing yards and a touchdown on 28 carries. Mason’s post-game comments stirred controversy when he initially stated he was told on Friday that he would start, which would violate NFL rules. Head coach Kyle Shanahan later clarified that Mason was informed he would play a significant role, not necessarily start.Rodgers, making his Jets debut after a year-long injury layoff, showed flashes of his four-time MVP form but struggled with consistency. He completed 13 of 21 passes for 167 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. ‘I can play better. I’ve made some mistakes,’ Rodgers admitted post-game.The 49ers’ balanced attack was further bolstered by quarterback Brock Purdy, who threw for 231 yards without turnovers, and kicker Jake Moody, who tied a franchise record with six field goals. Rookie guard Dominick Puni also made a strong impression in his NFL debut, contributing to the team’s dominant offensive line performance.Jets coach Robert Saleh acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, particularly in the trenches, stating, ‘They beat us up front, plain and simple.’ However, he remained optimistic about the team’s ability to improve, guaranteeing, ‘We’ll get that s**t fixed. We’ll be better, 100 percent.’ The loss served as a reality check for the Jets, highlighting areas that need improvement as they prepare to face the Tennessee Titans in Week 2. Meanwhile, the 49ers will look to build on this strong start, showcasing their depth and championship aspirations early in the season.
Key points
- The 49ers defeated the Jets 32-19, spoiling Aaron Rodgers’ return from injury.
- Jordan Mason, filling in for injured Christian McCaffrey, had a standout performance with 147 rushing yards and a touchdown.
- Aaron Rodgers showed signs of rust in his Jets debut, completing 13 of 21 passes for 167 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
- 49ers kicker Jake Moody tied a franchise record with six field goals.
- Jets coach Robert Saleh acknowledged team weaknesses but remained optimistic about future improvements.
Contradictions👾There was a discrepancy regarding when Jordan Mason was informed about his starting role.
Mason initially claimed he was told on Friday, which would violate NFL rules, but coach Kyle Shanahan later clarified that Mason was only told he would play a significant role, not necessarily start.
