After the bye week, Steve Wilks made some much-needed adjustments. Rather than starting as a third linebacker or fifth defensive back, Javon Kinlaw began the game as the fifth defensive lineman.
Then, with the Niners choosing to play nickel defense on second down, Ambry Thomas—yes, that Ambry Thomas—entered the game. On third down, Arik Armstead’s sack resulted in a three-and-out.
George Kittle was wide open for 29 yards, but the 49ers marched 57 yards in just over two minutes after the Jaguars failed to gain a yard on their first drive. With the Niners up 6-0, Purdy hit Brandon Aiyuk with one of those, “no, no, yes!” throws in the end zone.
In their second series, San Francisco’s defense performed similarly well. Wilks was able to maneuver Nick Bosa about and position him over the center because Chase Young was able to see the field. Trevor Lawrence was put down by Javon Hargrave to force a second straight three-and-out as pressure mounted on him.
On the subsequent drive, the Jaguars were awarded a first down. Arik Armstead cautiously left the field, clearly limping. On the replay, an offensive lineman from Jacksonville appeared to trip Armstead. On third down, Arik came back, and Jacksonville punted for the third straight series.
Although it appeared that the 49ers offense would gain another first down, Brandon Aiyuk was called for an uncommon instance of offensive pass interference. Punting was a first for the Niners as they were unable to overcome the penalty.
Following Christian Kirk’s outstanding return, the Jaguars assumed the lead in a good position. Despite Travis Etienne’s 16-yard rush, the Jaguars were forced to go for a second and fifteen due to a game delay. Greetings to Chase Young, who was about to make his 49ers debut in the sack. To force a fumble and give the 49ers a short field, Nick Bosa met him at the quarterback position.
The 49ers were unable to take advantage of the offense being set back by a Trent Williams hold. With a 56-yard punt that stopped Jacksonville on their 1-yard line, Mitch Wishnowsky accomplished his job. Jacksonville had the highest screen pass usage rate in the NFL going into Sunday.
