The San Francisco 49ers open the 2024 season at home against the New York Jets on Monday Night Football. This game is significant, marking the return of Robert Saleh, the former 49ers defensive coordinator and now the head coach of the Jets, along with former 49ers player Javon Kinlaw, to Levi's Stadium. What will it take for the 49ers to start their season with a victory? Here are the Keys to Victory.
Protection
With Trent Williams back, the 49ers must protect Brock Purdy's blindside. Expect the team to utilize tight end George Kittle on the right side to help counter the Jets' pass rush. Even if the Jets are without their top pass rusher, Haason Reddick, the 49ers must prioritize protecting Purdy.
Establish the Run
The Jets' defensive front, featuring defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and Kinlaw, will pose a challenge for the 49ers' passing game. Therefore, the 49ers, known for their outside zone runs, should lean on running back Jordan Mason to exploit the Jets' run defense up the middle. The 49ers should have a mixture of runs from outside zone to power runs to keep the Jets' defense off balance.
Rhythm
The 49ers' offense is a sight to behold when it finds its rhythm. Head coach Kyle Shanahan will likely orchestrate a few long, methodical drives to keep the Jets' strong secondary on their toes. The matchup between wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and cornerback Sauce Gardner promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
Maintaining offensive momentum with consistent scoring drives will be key to keeping the 49ers' defense fresh and ready to dominate.
Stop The Run
The 49ers look like a run defense. With the additions of Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliot, they will get their first big test on Monday Night against the Jets, with running back Breece Hall leading the charge. Hall is the Jets' version of Christian McCaffrey—a dual threat who can run and catch effectively. The 49ers defense must play fast and secure the tackle on Hall.
If the 49ers can take away the run and force quarterback Aaron Rodgers to be one-dimensional, it will make it easier for the defense to control the game and secure a victory. The defense's ability to stop the run will be crucial in determining the game's outcome.
Containment
While Rodgers isn't known as a running quarterback, he is mobile enough to extend plays with his legs. The 49ers' front must keep him contained in the pocket, preventing him from converting third downs into scoring opportunities. The game's outcome will largely depend on the 49ers' ability to play effective man or zone coverage and keep Rodgers contained.
The 49ers are gearing up for a strong start as Week 1 approaches. With a full roster ready to go, if they can execute these five keys, they have a great chance to kick off the season as one of the undefeated teams in the NFL.