Christian McCaffrey didn't play, but the 49ers didn't skip a beat when they crushed the New York Jets on "Monday Night Football." Backup Jordan Mason had the best game of his young career and San Francisco looked every bit of a team looking to change its Super Bowl misfortune into a title victory.
Perhaps the most surprising performance in Week 1 was Sam Darnold, who looked like a prime quarterback leading the Vikings to a win over the New York Giants. There were questions if the offense could do enough this season, but if Minnesota plays like how it did in Week 1, it could be a sneaky playoff team.
I don’t see Sam Darnold — even with his solid game against the Giants — keeping pace with the 49ers offense. Regardless of whether Christian McCaffrey plays, San Francisco could get whatever yards it wanted against the Jets, a far better defense than Minnesota’s.
Tyler Dragon: 49ers 30, Vikings 20
The 49ers looked like they were ready to make a return trip to the Super Bowl after an early Week 1 statement. WR Justin Jefferson is going to be a matchup problem for San Francisco’s secondary, but that’s Minnesota’s only advantage. The 49ers are still the top team in the NFC.
Richard Morin: 49ers 27, Vikings 21
The spread is a bit risky here, but I could see the Vikings finding a rhythm on offense in this one. The 49ers will win, but the over might be the play.
Jordan Mendoza: 49ers 24, Vikings 20
After Monday's performance without Christian McCaffrey, it's tough seeing anyone able to take down the reigning NFC champions. Last season, Minnesota surprised San Francisco at home. While this game should be close, the 49ers shouldn't falter this time around. The defense holds on to move to 2-0.
They’re giving the Vikings 6 points, wow. That’s a great bet to take. No Mccaffrey either. It’s the Vikings home opener and darnold will outplay purdy.
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