The New York Jets start their awaited 2024 season with a hard game against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football, September 9, at Levi’s Stadium. Both squads come off seasons with their own special stories: the 49ers had a good run, reaching the Super Bowl, while the Jets want a new beginning with Aaron Rodgers, who is back from the injury that sidelined him for the entire last season. This match looks to be a key test for both teams.
Aaron Rodgers’ Return and the Jets' Offense
After a forgettable 2023 season, Aaron Rodgers comes back to lead Jets in 2024, with big hopes of changing the team into a playoff hopeful. The Jets offense is full of promise thanks to skilled players like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, who are looked at to give Rodgers many choices. But all eyes will be on Rodgers if he can return to his MVP form at the age of 40.
The Jets’ chance to do well will probably depend on how fast Rodgers can get rid of the rust and connect with his key players. On a different note, their defense that's considered as one of the best in the league has shown signs of promise, especially with Quinnen Williams leading the line. Still, the big test for the Jets will be dealing with the powerful 49ers offense. Fans watching the game through live stream or even betting at an online casino are going to pay close attention as it plays out.
The 49ers’ hopes for the big game and strong defense
The 49ers start the 2024 season with the hopes of another Super Bowl run. Their 2023 journey ended in sadness after a close overtime defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl. The team's nucleus has remained unchanged, as quarterback Brock Purdy along with stars like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel and Nick Bosa are back and eager to go for another title run.
San Francisco's pass-rush, led by Bosa, is one of the best units in the NFL and the Jets' offensive line is going to have their hands full protecting Aaron Rodgers. Purdy has proven to be a rather consistent signal caller, who has his limitations but manages the game very well. The 49ers' mix of attack along with their top defense makes them favorites for this Week 1 game.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Aaron Rodgers and 49ers Defense: The biggest tale of the game is surely how Rodgers deals with the pressure from the 49ers'
- Jets Defense vs. 49ers Attack: The Jets defense is expected be tested early and often. Quinnen Williams and Co. will have a difficult task dealing with McCaffrey, arguably the best running back in the league, while the Jets' secondary will face off against San Francisco's receiving corps that includes one of the best tight ends in the NFL, George Kittle.
- Coaching Matchup: Jets head coach Robert Saleh will go against his old friend, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. Saleh worked as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, which obviously adds another twist to this contest.
Game Prediction and Outlook
Many specialists and betting sites are backing the 49ers to take the first game, with San Francisco being favored by 4.5 points. The 49ers' strong team and home field advantage give them a big benefit. Even if the Jets’ attack looks good with Rodgers, it will be hard to beat one of the best defenses in the league, especially in his first game after missing the entire last season.
But, if Rodgers can tap into some of his old skills and stay away from mistakes, the Jets may keep the game tighter than expected. The mix of Rodgers' wise guidance and the Jets' budding skill could cause a shocking result, especially if the 49ers’ star players like Trent Williams or Deebo Samuel aren’t at full strength.
Ultimately, looking at the 49ers' current play and the unknowns about Rodgers' comeback from the season ending injury, it seems like a 49ers win is more likely. San Francisco's attack will probably overcome the Jets' defense, while Rodgers might need time to get back to his game form after sitting out all of the 2023 year. The game will be close at first but the 49ers should pull ahead late in the contest, with the final score of 27-20 for San Francisco.
This season opener will be an exciting start to the 2024 NFL season, showing a peek into the future for both teams as they start on different paths to their season goals.