GET BREECE INVOLVED EARLY
Many might say Aaron Rodgers is the key to the Jets upsetting the 49ers in the season opener. However, Breece Hall‘s play could open many doors for Gang Green’s offense.
Not only is Hall a dynamic runner out of the backfield, but he is also the Jets’ second-best pass-catching option after wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Last season, Hall finished with 994 rushing yards and 76 receptions for 591 yards receiving.
If the Jets can get Hall in an early rhythm in both the running and passing attack, that will take a lot of pressure off Rodgers and the rest of the offense.
MAKE PURDY UNCOMFORTABLE
The teams that have had the most success against Brock Purdy and the 49ers offense have been those that generate pressure early and often.
San Francisco’s offensive line is arguably its biggest weakness. Although left tackle Trent Williams will play against the Jets after reworking his contract, guard Jon Feliciano is on injured reserve (knee). That means rookie third-round pick Dominick Puni will get the start at right guard against a Jets defense that has finished fifth in total defense in the last two seasons.
Gang Green avoids blitzing and relies on its front four to get to the quarterback. With Haason Reddick holding out and requesting a trade last month, the Jets’ job will be that much harder, considering they are already trying to replace 19.5 sacks from last year’s team.
Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams must set the tone early since he is the best player on the Jets’ front four. However, others like Jermaine Johnson, Will McDonald, and Javon Kinlaw must also make their presence known since Williams will likely be double-teamed most of the night.
KEEP RODGERS’ POCKET CLEAN
Rodgers’s return from his season-ending Achilles tear will be a significant topic during the Monday Night Football broadcast. But the Jets’ newly formed offensive line, which includes Tyron Smith, John Simpson, and Morgan Moses, will be under fire against a talented 49ers defensive line.
Nick Bosa is a pass rusher who is quick and strong off the edge and could be a potential matchup nightmare for the Jets. Then there’s Leonard Floyd, who sacked Rodgers when he tore his Achilles. Gang Green’s offensive line has to be on high alert for both Bosa and Floyd if they are going to come away with the victory on the road.
