New York Jets vs. San Francisco 49ers odds, expert picks, how to watch: Aaron Rodgers is back but Niners favored for ‘Monday Night Football’

Follow Monday Night Football live coverage of the Jets vs. 49ers

“Monday Night Football” opens 2024 with a spotlight matchup when the San Francisco 49ers host the New York Jets. Following last season’s Super Bowl loss, the 49ers are aiming to avoid a letdown. If four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers can stay healthy, the Jets also believe they’re a contender. The 49ers are favorites to win over the Jets to close out the Week 1 schedule.

San Francisco’s roster is filled with luxuries. Brock Purdy was the NFL’s most efficient passer last season (113 QB rating), and he returns his three favorite receivers now that Brandon Aiyuk inked an extension to get back on the field. The trio of Aiyuk, receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and tight end George Kittle remains a nightmare to game plan against.

Reigning Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey stands behind Purdy at running back, but he may not play in the opening game due to ongoing injury issues (calf/Achilles). He was limited in practice last week and listed as questionable on Saturday.

Third in points allowed (17.5) and eighth in yards allowed per game (303.9) last season, the Niners defense has new faces with defensive end Arik Armstead departing for Jacksonville and linebacker Dre Greenlaw (Achilles) starting the season on the sidelines. Nick Bosa and company still have plenty of returning talent to maintain a top-10 defense.

For the Jets, Rodgers played four offensive snaps in 2023 before a ruptured Achilles ended his season. Jets passers had a league-low 70.5 QB Rating once Rodgers went down. An overhauled offensive line and emerging playmakers keeps optimism going in New York. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall could have All-Pro seasons if Rodgers can return to form.

Even if Rodgers is rusty, defense remains the backbone for New York. Pro Football Focus ranked the Jets No. 1 at defensive line, linebacker and secondary during group rankings this offseason.

All odds from BetMGM. Looking for NFL tickets? Find them here.

New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers odds

How to watch Jets vs. 49ers

• Venue: Levi’s Stadium — Santa Clara, Calif.
• Time: 8:20 p.m. ET, Monday
• TV: ABC, ESPN
• Streaming: Watch live on Fubo (Save $30)

Expert picks for Jets vs. 49ers

Read more about NFL Week 1

‘Aaron Rodgers is going to have a damn field day’: Mike Williams’ former QBs on the Jets new receiver

My 2024 49ers season prediction — 11-6 and wrestling their way to a division title

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(Photo of Aaron Rodgers: Mitchell Leff / Getty Images)