The San Francisco 49ers loss to the Minnesota Vikings will likely be headlined by a historic connection between former Niner Sam Darnold and his new star pass catcher Justin Jefferson.
After stopping the 49ers on fourth and goal at the goal line, the Vikings quickly took advantage with a bomb from Darnold to Jefferson. From their own 3-yard line, Darnold placed a perfect pass into the hands of Jefferson for a 97-yard touchdown.
Jefferson was able to slip behind both of the 49ers’ safeties on the play, Ji’Ayir Brown and George Odum. After the game, Brown took a bulk of the blame for the long touchdown and explained what went wrong on the play.
I’ve got to be better. I kind of left my safety hanging there. Yeah, I just got to be better there.
I’ve got Jefferson on an over. He’s got Jefferson on an up-and-out. Jefferson stemmed inside — kind of slowed me down — anticipating him going over, and he just took the roof off.
Via @NBCS49ers on Twitter:
Ji'Ayir Brown reveals the coverage misstep that allowed Justin Jefferson's 97-yard touchdown pic.twitter.com/x2ua8q7lSF
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) September 15, 2024
Darnold’s 97-yard pass to Jefferson will live in San Francisco’s record book as the longest touchdown pass against the 49ers in franchise history.
Darnold finished with 268 yards passing, two touchdowns and an interception against his former team. Before exiting the game early, Jefferson notched 133 yards receiving on four catches with a touchdown.
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