The 2024 NFL season is officially underway, and Monday Night Football kicks off with a high-stakes matchup between the New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers. Aaron Rodgers, now leading the Jets, heads west to face Brock Purdy and the 49ers in what could be a preview of February’s Super Bowl. Both teams are considered early favorites to contend for the Lombardi Trophy, but their paths last season were markedly different.
.@BreeceH finishes the drive! #JetUp
📺: #NYJvsSF on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/ArdMdsCK2x— NFL (@NFL) September 10, 2024
Jets’ Rollercoaster 2023 Season Ends in Disappointment
The Jets entered the 2023 season with sky-high expectations following the acquisition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, the optimism was short-lived. Rodgers’ season ended just four plays in due to an Achilles tendon tear, dashing the Jets’ Super Bowl dreams. Despite rumors of a potential return, Rodgers remained sidelined, and the Jets missed the playoffs, capping off a frustrating season filled with what-ifs. Tonight, Rodgers returns to action, looking to ignite the spark that fans have been eagerly awaiting.
49ers Eye Redemption After Falling Short in Super Bowl
In contrast, the 49ers enjoyed a successful 2023 season, making it all the way to the Super Bowl before falling to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. This offseason, head coach Kyle Shanahan navigated tricky negotiations with key players like wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and tackle Trent Williams, ultimately keeping the core of the team intact. However, their season opener comes with its own set of challenges as star running back Christian McCaffrey has been ruled out due to injury, dealing a significant blow to their offense.
Jets vs. 49ers Scoreboard
Jets: 7
49ers: 13
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First Quarter Recap
10:58 – 49ers Field Goal: Jake Moody kicked things off with a 46-yard field goal, giving San Francisco an early 3-0 lead.
3:51 – Jets Touchdown: Breece Hall answered back with a 3-yard touchdown run, and Greg Zuerlein’s extra point gave the Jets a 7-3 lead.
Second Quarter Recap
14:04 – 49ers Field Goal: Moody nailed a 51-yard field goal, narrowing the Jets’ lead to 7-6.
6:54 – 49ers Touchdown: Deebo Samuel powered through for a 2-yard touchdown run, and Moody’s extra point put the 49ers ahead 13-7.
Jets 7, 49ers 6: Moody’s 51-Yard Field Goal Keeps the Game Tight
Early in the second quarter, the 49ers engineered a nine-play, 37-yard drive into Jets territory. A failed reverse run by Deebo Samuel on third down set up a difficult field position, but Samuel’s evasive moves limited the loss to just three yards. Jake Moody stepped up, drilling a 51-yard field goal to cut the Jets’ lead to 7-6 with 14:04 left in the half.
“Moody’s made two field goals beyond 45 yards to start the game,” said Tyler Dragon.
Rodgers-Wilson Connection Ignites Jets Offense
After struggling through poor quarterback play in his first two seasons, Garrett Wilson showed why he’s eager for Rodgers’ return. The duo connected multiple times on a crucial third drive, showcasing their chemistry and keeping the Jets’ offense moving. Four completions for 45 yards set up a goal-line opportunity, and Breece Hall punched it in from three yards out.
“It was a drive Jets fans have been dreaming of since Rodgers joined,” noted Jordan Mendoza.
Aaron Rodgers Makes It Past Four Snaps
Rodgers’ return marked his first extended play since last season’s abrupt injury. While it wasn’t all smooth sailing, with a three-and-out on the first drive and a fumble on the second, Rodgers’ mere presence brought renewed hope to the Jets’ sideline.
“He lasted only four snaps in the 2023 season, but made it to a fifth on the Jets third drive of the day,” Mendoza quipped.
Fred Warner’s Early Impact Leads to 49ers Field Goal
49ers linebacker Fred Warner wasted no time making his presence felt, forcing a fumble on the Jets’ fourth play of the game. Warner jarred the ball loose from running back Breece Hall, setting the 49ers up with prime field position. Though the offense stalled, Jake Moody’s 46-yard field goal gave San Francisco an early 3-0 lead.
“Star inside linebacker Fred Warner is already making an impact,” said Tyler Dragon.
Game Details: When and Where to Watch
Kickoff Time: The game between the Jets and 49ers kicked off at 8:15 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
TV Channels: ABC, ESPN, ESPN2. Viewers can enjoy the expert commentary of Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Lisa Salters, or switch to ESPN2 for the popular “ManningCast” featuring Peyton and Eli Manning.
Live Streaming: For those without cable, the game is available on ESPN+ and Fubo TV, which also streams other major networks like NBC, CBS, FOX, and NFL Network.
Jason Kelce’s Entertaining Monday Night Football Debut
Jason Kelce, former Philadelphia Eagles center, made his “Monday Night Countdown” debut in classic fashion, drawing laughs from co-hosts Ryan Clark and Marcus Spears after showing up in a snug mall-bought shirt, a last-minute replacement for his missing travel gear.
McCaffrey’s Absence Looms Large
The 49ers’ dynamic playmaker Christian McCaffrey was ruled inactive for the opener due to calf and Achilles injuries. Despite being listed as “questionable,” McCaffrey was unable to suit up, leaving the running back duties to Jordan Mason.
The Jets’ list of inactive players included OL Max Mitchell, RB Israel Abanikanda, and CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse, among others. The 49ers were also missing safety Talanoa Hufanga and linebacker Dee Winters, adding to their early-season challenges.
As both teams set their sights on a successful 2024 campaign, this Monday Night Football matchup could set the tone for what’s to come.
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