Patriots at 49ers: 3 things we learned

Here’s what we learned from the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

Despite not having Rob Gronkowski on the road, the New England Patriots took care of business in Tom Brady’s homecoming against the team he grew up rooting for. The San Francisco 49ers didn’t always make it easy on New England, but the Patriots came away with the comfortable win in the end. Here’s what we learned.

3. San Francisco has competed hard two straight weeks

For two straight weeks, the San Francisco 49ers have lost and played hard at the same time. They made a comeback against the Arizona Cardinals last week and really pushed the Patriots in the first half this week. They’re still a bad football team, but this is great to see from the young players on the roster and Colin Kaepernick has been solid too.

2. Malcolm Mitchell is the next secrete New England weapon

Without Rob Gronkowski, the Patriots needed to find a receiving option to make a big play. Malcolm Mitchell had a huge 56-yard touchdown on the day and really broke things open for New England. He’s just another guy that the Patriots have that can make plays.

1. Tom Brady put on a show in his homecoming

Finally getting to play in front of the fans he grew up with, Tom Brady put on a show. He had four touchdowns on the day and really showed why he is one of the favorites to win MVP this season. He’s playing his best football of the year.