49ers vs. Vikings 3rd quarter thread: Expect fireworks in the 2nd half

In years past, this was a punt, and let your defense give you the ball back with an advantageous field position. Instead, Kyle Shanahan elected to go for it on 4th & 4, and Jauan Jennings beat his man over the middle of the field for a gain of 25 yards. Jennings has been remarkable at the start of the season, and he came through for the team there.

That would not be the last time the Niners leaned on Jennings. After Kittle’s 3rd & goal reception came up a yard and a half short of the end zone, Purdy targeted Jennings on 4th & goal, but the ball was behind JJ after being tipped, and the 49ers would turn the ball over on downs.

Many wanted the 49ers to run the ball, and you won’t get many arguments, but Jennings was open. It’s tough to foreshadow a tipped pass and an unblocked defender. In hindsight, not getting any points hurts, as the defense surrendered a 97-yard touchdown to Justin Jefferson. That was the longest allowed ever in franchise history.

Jefferson was matched up against George Odum in the slot. It’s an impossible matchup for a safety, even with help over the top. Jefferson lining up in the slot makes it difficult for Mooney to match up against Jefferson, but there needs to be some kind of check that doesn’t isolate Odum here.

Ji’Ayir Brown didn’t exactly do the best job deep in coverage. Jefferson is the Vikings’ only threat. That should’ve been Brown’s primary concern.

After another punt, the Vikings drove the field again and looked to tack on to their 10-0 lead. But Fred Warner made an acrobatic interception that gave the 49ers the jolt of energy they needed.

It was 13-7 at the half.