49ers game grades: Rush defense, ground attack stellar in impressive win vs. Jets

4 of 4

Kicking/Punting/Kickoff

The 49ers joined the majority of NFL teams choosing to kick the ball into the end zone in the NFL's new kickoff system, giving up an extra 5 yards of field position compared to last year. When they kicked the ball to the Jets returners, they tackled well, a sign of good fundamentals that should carry over.

The name of the game was Jake Moody field goals. The embattled second-year kicker finished 6-of-6, with two field goals from 50-plus yards.

If you could define a kicking performance as dominant, Moody matched that.

The Niners will hope not to have their kicker on the field for field goals over extra points in the future, but that was a great sign for the special teams unit.

Grade: 10/10

Season Grade: 10/10

Returning

San Francisco did not get much traction in the return game, but rookie Jacob Cowing showed flashes of what will make him an unsung hero for the 49ers this season. Tallying 7.5 yards per return may not seem like much, but those are bonus yards that can slightly tip the scales.

For a 49ers team that has seen the return game take more than it has given, that has to feel good.

Grade: 8/10

Season Grade: 8/10

Final Thoughts

The 49ers won over a playoff-hopeful team by double digits, yet the biggest feeling coming out of the game might be anticipation that the offense can turn field goals into touchdowns and that the defense can tighten up even further.

They will have a chance to showcase that improvement against the Vikings next Sunday. For now, they can celebrate starting the season undefeated.