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.