Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets began their Monday night game against the San Francisco 49ers with a strong start, but were overwhelmed in the last three quarters, culminating in a 32-19 defeat in their season opener.
The positive aspect for the Jets is that Rodgers emerged from the game unscathed. This is very important for New York, especially after the season-ending Achilles injury he suffered in the first snap of last year's opener.
However, he managed only 167 passing yards and a single touchdown. Additionally, he threw an interception, as the 49ers' formidable defense proved to be a challenge throughout the game.
In the fourth quarter, the Jets conceded, bringing in backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who scored a consolation touchdown in the dying moments.
Following the game, Troy Aikman incisively analyzed what he described as a "humbling" and "deflating" defeat for the Jets.
"I think early on (Rodgers) was not able to get into a rhythm. I think maybe if a couple balls are caught that weren't caught, it changes the way a quarterback feels. They had the one good drive after the third drive, they struggled early. And then you felt like they started to figure this out."
"But the way I look at it is it had less to do with the Jets offensively or Aaron Rodgers and more to do with the 49ers. I thought (49ers defensive coordinator) Nick Sorenson came up with a great plan and the guys played hard. But I know when Mike Williams is fully incorporated in this offense he's going to help. (Allen) Lazard didn't do much until later in the ball game."
"I still think this is a team that's capable of being really, really good. They just have too many good players. And Rodgers is going to play at a high level, we certainly believe that. But this was a humbling night for the New York Jets, there's no doubt. This would have been a huge win to come here and win this game against this team but to not play better than they did is pretty deflating."
The Jets aim to bounce back in Week 2 as they head to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 15.
