The NFL season is back and in full swing with week 1 coming to a conclusion last night, with the Monday night primetime matchup of the New York Jets and the reigning NFC champions, the San Francisco 49ers. If you didn’t know, this game has high prominence as former 3 time MVP Aaron Rodgers, was making his return and official Jets debut, after he suffered a torn achilles only 4 plays into the game, ending his season.
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The story of the game was Rodgers’ return, but the spotlight ended up being all on the Niners and their backup running back, who stole the show. Prior to the game, star running back Christian McCaffrey was announced that he would not be playing, and if you had him on your fantasy or any of your bet slips, you probably fell to your knees in disbelief. But, it ended up being a blessing in disguise for Niner fans.
The game started slow, but if you watch football then you would know that’s how most games start out. Now that you know that Rodgers had a slow start last year after being injured almost immediately, fans were hoping to see action right out of the gates, which did happen, but not in favour for New York. Rodgers was able to find sophomore running back Breece Hall for a completion, but the ball was punched out by pro bowl defender Fred Warner which led to an easy 3 points for the 49ers.
You know that Rodgers would be able to find his rhythm again quickly, and that’s exactly what happened as they marched down field to get a rushing touchdown to obtain the lead. Following that drive, the Jets momentum was put to an abrupt stop though as they didn’t get another first down for the rest of the half, as the Niners led 16-7 going into halftime.
The most unexpected performance from last night’s game was Jordan Mason. You and I both did not see that breakout coming, I don’t even think expert NFL analysts were able to predict that one. He filled in the starting spot, and he was prepared. You would think he had maybe 80 or 90 yards rushing but it was far from that. Mason obliterated anybody that was in his path, as he ran for an insane 147 yards while also grabbing a touchdown in last night’s game.
The 49ers would dominate after halftime, scoring 16 in the heated battle. Jets receiver and longtime teammate of Aaron Rodgers had positive production, racking up close to triple digit receiving yards, and a pair of touchdowns. You probably knew with the title, but the Niners would put a halt in Rodgers return, winning 33-19. One thing you might’ve missed with that final score, is the fact that it’s scorigami, which is a unique score that has never happened in NFL history.
Week 1 of the season already brought NFL fans like you and I so many shocking surprises and nonstop action, and there’s still 17 weeks left including playoffs. Do you think Rodgers will resurge throughout the season? I’m a diehard Packers fan, but I think his time is slowly coming to an end and this could be either his last or second last season, you’ll just have to wait and see.