Brian Sexton, Senior Correspondent…
That’s a statement win for Liam Coen and Co. They took the lead early in the second quarter and never let the 49ers come closer than three points again. The defense had its fourth consecutive game with at least 3 takeaways, special teams delivered a 54-yard kickoff return that set up a second-quarter field goal and the game-clinching punt return touchdown in the third quarter. The offense struggled but got the running game going again for 151 yards and Etienne delivered some big runs at important moments. They’re 3-1 for the first time since 2018 and in a first-place tie with Indianapolis in the AFC South.
When you have 4 takeaways, zero giveaways and score a special teams touchdown you shouldn’t be sweating it out. Why was the game still in question? The offense converted just 4 of 14 third downs and couldn’t stay on the field in the second half. The offense punted 3 times, hit a field goal and missed a field goal on five second-half drives and managed just 96 total yards. They have to get third down figured out – and of course a large number of those were due to penalties that negated a first down – as was the case late in the game after a 10-yard Etienne run for a first down. A 3-1 record is a great start for Coen and Co., but they have to reach even a modest level of success on third down if they expect to keep winning.
Kainani Stevens, Jaguars Team Reporter/Producer …
From worst to first. The Jaguars’ defense continues to solidify itself among the best in the NFL when it comes to takeaways. Things continued to roll for the Jags Sunday, marking the fourth consecutive game the team has had three or more takeaways. Lloyd has had a rebirth this season. He finished with two interceptions, a tackle for loss and two passes defended. Armstead found redemption against his former team with a strip sack that stopped a 49ers potential game-winning drive before it could even begin. Defensive Coordinator Anthony Campanile has completely transformed that side of the ball and is getting the most out of players that struggled mightily last season.
Playing hurt. The Jags suffered a slew of injuries on both sides of the ball on Sunday, but one sticks out to me as a major concern moving forward. Defensive end Travon Walker exited the game and did not return after suffering a wrist injury in the first half. Walker is a game wrecker and among the best players on this roster. I don’t think it’s coincidental that the 49ers offense started to get going after Walker left the game. We will await an update on Monday about Walker’s status and fans should cross their fingers that it is nothing long term.