Adam Gase’s New York Jets were thoroughly outplayed by the San Francisco 49ers in Week 2 action, falling by a final of 31-13.
- New York Jets 13 (0-2)
- San Francisco 49ers 31 (1-1)
- NFL, Week 2, Final, Box Score
- MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ—To think the New York Jets offensive line actually pushed around the San Francisco 49ers front a bit early in this game is one of the more unbelievable things in this world. But it’s true, and yet Adam Gase’s squad still couldn’t capitalize.
A battered Niners squad came into MetLife Stadium and thoroughly outplayed the home team, 31-13.
The first play of the game—an 80-yard Raheem Mostert touchdown run—provided all the foreshadowing required.
How about an 80-yard @RMos_8Ball touchdown to wake you up ‼️
📺 #SFvsNYJ on FOX pic.twitter.com/UNdEc8mEjM
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 20, 2020
Kyle Shanahan did exactly what a play-caller is supposed to against this Jets defense devoid of play-in-space edge talent. He attacked outside early and often to solid success.
When he allowed Jimmy Garoppolo to go to the air, the success was overwhelming.
Tight end Jordan Reed caught two first-half touchdowns, one with just 11 seconds remaining in the first half.
First #49ers touchdown for @JR86! 🙌
📺 #SFvsNYJ on FOX pic.twitter.com/oNdnOGhtmy
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 20, 2020
That @JimmyG_10 to @JR86 connection 🎯
📺 #SFvsNYJ on FOX pic.twitter.com/Sc9xx5gvPw
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 20, 2020
The second score is forgivable. The first, however, showcased horrible communication between the two defenders and Marcus Maye could not get over to Reed in time.
Gregg Williams’ defense as a whole played terribly. Other than two Quinnen Williams sacks, there was nothing to write home about. The unit missed an incredible number of tackles and rarely generated pressure on Niners’ quarterbacks.
We see you, @QuinnenWilliams ‼
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/y3LPBQNhVG
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 20, 2020
Number two for Q 😤
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/JK4iuYn8Nx
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 20, 2020
Jimmy Garoppolo finished with 131 yards and two touchdowns to no interceptions on 14 of 16 passing. The only reason the numbers appear modest is due to Garoppolo’s exit from the game at halftime. On the first Williams sack, Garoppolo appeared to injure his ankle. He hung in there for the first half but left at half.
San Francisco didn’t need him. Backup quarterback Nick Mullens entered and picked up the professional offense where it left off with Garoppolo.
Interestingly, the already-beaten-up Niners suffered more injuries in this one (on top of the quarterback). Nick Bosa left the game early, as did Mostert. Both didn’t return after leaving in the first half.
The Jets lost wide receivers Breshad Perriman (ankle) and Chris Hogan (ribs). Also injured in the contest were Quincy Wilson (concussion), Arthur Maulet (groin) and Connor McGovern (hamstring).
Jerick McKinnon added an extra score early in the fourth quarter to put an end to a miserable Jet day (with more missed tackles):
Take flight @JetMckinnon1 ✈️
📺 #SFvsNYJ on FOX pic.twitter.com/foHJYpZ4Aq
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 20, 2020
Pierre Desir helped window-dress a porous defensive performance with a gift of an interception.
First INT in the Green & White for @pierre_desir.
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/SR8yFW5TYC
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 20, 2020
Darnold finished with just 179 yards and a garbage-time touchdown on 21 of 32 passing. He found Braxton Berrios late in the game for a 30-yard score.
We know things aren't going well, but this was a pretty great play by Sam.
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/ohYVV4Dsse
— New York Jets (@nyjets) September 20, 2020
Darnold wasn’t bad by any means; he just never received an opportunity to do some damage. Every time the offensive line paved the way on first down (which happened frequently in the first half), either something would go wrong on second and third or an entirely-too-conservative approach limited opportunities.
Frank Gore tallied 63 yards on 21 carries while rookie La’Mical Perine went for 17 on three attempts. Chris Hogan led the way in the air with 75 yards on six receptions.
As unimpressive as the 49ers were, the Jets found a way to not only match their opponent’s play but also find a new low in the Adam Gase era. The 0-2 New York Jets next turn their attention to the Indianapolis Colts on the road.
