Mac Jones: From Doubt to Domination in New Orleans
In his fiftieth start in the NFL, quarterback Mac Jones faced the New Orleans Saints with nervousness. His debut as a starter with the 49ers, replacing the injured Brock Purdy, generated expectations and pressure. The first few minutes of the match reflected the tension. Three incomplete passes and a capture for a loss of 4 yards marked the beginning. It was then that Trent Williams, a veteran of 15 seasons and a four-time All-Pro, intervened.After a difficult start, Jones recovered and starred in one of the best performances of his career. He finished with 26 of 39 completed passes for 279 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, achieving a passer rating of 113.1. He especially stood out in key moments, with 7 of 12 completed passes for 121 yards and the three touchdowns on third down. This was the fifth time in Jones’ career that he achieved three touchdowns in a game. He became the third quarterback in franchise history to throw for more than 250 yards with three or more touchdowns and no interceptions in his first start with the team. The victory was achieved amidst a series of injuries on the 49ers’ offense. Purdy, tight end George Kittle (hamstring), and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (knee) did not play. Trent Williams (knee) and receiver Jauan Jennings (shoulder) played despite being questionable. In addition, fullback Kyle Juszczyk (concussion) and left guard Ben Bartch (ankle) left the game early. Coach Kyle Shanahan praised Jones’ performance: “I think Mac played very well… I think he handled the situation well, threw the ball very well… He did a great job.” The only mistake by Jones occurred on the first drive of the third quarter, when he was sacked and forced a fumble that Demario Davis recovered. Jones took responsibility, stating that he should have “gotten rid of the ball” faster. Despite this error, Jones showed solidity compared to the previous week. The San Francisco team managed to protect him better than Purdy in the game against the Seahawks. When he had time, Jones delivered, including a pass to Jennings for a 42-yard touchdown that secured the victory. Defensive players Nick Bosa and Bryce Huff contributed with decisive sacks in the final series for New Orleans. The possibility of Jones starting again against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3 is still up in the air. Purdy’s injury could require several weeks of recovery. Shanahan suggested a possibility of Purdy returning at the home game at Levi’s Stadium. Jones, who signed a two-year, $7 million contract in March, has been using breathing exercises and meditation to control his emotions. This has helped him stay calm in crucial moments. The victory and good performance on the road could also help Jones put behind him the problems of last season. Jones commented that he feels he can play very well and that the organization is helping him get back on track. Confidence also exists in the 49ers’ locker room, especially after seeing Jones overcome initial nerves and have one of his most productive games as a professional.“Just go and play, man, go and make plays,” Williams advised him. Jones responded: “If Trent Williams can say that, then I can do it. That calmed me down a bit”.
Trent Williams
