On Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks took sole possession of first place in the NFC West at the start of the 2024 NFL season, as their 26-20 victory over the Denver Broncos made them the only team in the division to win on Sunday.

The big downside to that statement, of course, is that the San Francisco 49ers, the two-time defending division champions, have yet to play, as their season opens with a game against the New York Jets on Monday night.

Not only is the clash the first game on the road to a potential third consecutive NFC West title for the Niners, it’s also the first time the team has taken the field since both All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk ended their hiatus that lasted the duration of training camp and the preseason. How much of an impact could that have on the effectiveness of the Niners offense as they prepare to face a Jets defense in 2023 that has proven stingy at times.

Additionally, the 49ers defense will have to stop a New York offense featuring Aaron Rodgers for the first time. Yes, Rodgers started the Jets’ season opener last season, but only played four snaps before tearing his Achilles tendon. Rodgers did not play in the preseason after taking a rehab offseason, which could give San Francisco an advantage, as Rodgers will likely have a lot of rust to shake off and isn’t always on the same wavelength as the rest of his teammates.

FanDuel Sportsbook has the Niners entering the game as 4.5 favorites, with the over/under for the game at 43.5. San Francisco should be able to even that spread, and the over seems to be the better bet given both teams’ offensive weapons.