In years past, this would be a punt, and your defense would give you the ball back in advantageous field position. Instead, Kyle Shanahan decided to go for it on 4th & 4, and Jauan Jennings beat his man down the middle of the field and gained 25 yards. Jennings was notable early in the season and has proven himself there for the team.

That wouldn’t be the last time the Niners relied on Jennings. After Kittle’s pass on 3rd and 4 landed just 1.5 yards from the end zone, Purdy targeted Jennings on 4th and 4, but the ball was behind JJ after a rebound and the 49ers lost possession on a punt attempt.

Many wanted the 49ers to run the ball, and you won’t hear many objections, but Jennings was free. It’s hard to predict a deflected pass and an unblocked defender. In hindsight, it hurts not to score any points, as the defense allowed a 97-yard touchdown to Justin Jefferson. That was the longest run the franchise has ever allowed.

Jefferson would face George Odum in the slot. That is an impossible matchup for a safety, even with help from above. Jefferson in the slot makes it difficult for Mooney to face Jefferson, but it has to some Type of review that Odum does not isolate here.

Ji’Ayir Brown hasn’t done the best job in deep coverage. Jefferson is the Vikings’ only threat. That should have been Brown’s main concern.

After another punt, the Vikings took the field again and tried to extend their lead to 10-0. But Fred Warner managed an acrobatic interception that gave the 49ers the energy boost they needed.

At halftime the score was 13:7.