Punished excited by challenge of facing Jones in 49ers-Chiefs originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
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SANTA CLARA — Quarterback Patrick Mahomes was named MVP of the Kansas City Chiefs’ two Super Bowl victories over the 49ers.
Defensive tackle Chris Jones also played a big role in the 49ers’ discouraging losses.
Jones completed three passes at the line of scrimmage against Jimmy Garoppolo during Super Bowl LIV in Miami. And he broke free under a key overtime pressure to force an incomplete pass from Brock Purdy in overtime in the 49ers’ last Super Bowl loss.
On Sunday, the 49ers will have someone new lined up in front of five-time Pro Bowl player Jones.
“I’m excited,” 49ers rookie right guard Dominick Puni said.
Puni, a third-round pick from Kansas State, it was a revelation for the 49ers. He entered the lineup with the first-team offense in training camp after injuries to Jon Feliciano and Spencer Buford. And he has proven time and time again why he is the right person for the job.
Puni improved the 49ers offensive line more than a year ago.
And he said he’s ready to find out what it takes to shut down the game’s best players.
“Aaron Donald was going to be the first test until he retired,” Puni said. “I was also very excited to face him. Obviously I know what a crazy challenge that would have been, but just to say you did it.
“But Chris Jones is also part of that echelon. One of, if not the best, D-tackles in the league.
With Donald announcing his retirement after 10 seasons with the Rams, Jones might be the best interior defensive lineman in the game. And Puni believes the experience of facing him on Sunday at Levi’s Stadium will provide a great learning opportunity.
“It’s going to be a great match,” Puni said. “And I hope it propels me for the rest of the season as well.”
When asked what stood out after studying Jones’ video, Puni said, “Just his ability to play.” He appears in big moments. I think that’s his X-factor, and that’s what he brings to the table.
In six games, Puni has given up no sacks, no quarterback hits and 11 pressures, according to the PFF scoring systemwhich ranks him 9th (left or right) in the NFL.
Puni said he felt good about his performance early in his rookie season, but he still thinks there is plenty of room for improvement.
“There’s a lot to learn on offense,” he said. “Hopefully by Week 17, and the end of the season, I’ll be a really refined player within the offense.”
