The New England Patriots traveled to California this weekend for a Week 4 battle with the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium, and Jerod Mayo's team was handed their third loss in as many games, falling 30-13.
New England's offense was horrendous in this contest once again, as the offensive line was unable to keep the pressure off of Jacoby Brissett. The veteran quarterback was sacked six times but was hitless countless more. He was only able to throw for a season-high 168 yards (50 of which came on a pass to Antonio Gibson, who was lost by the defense).
Brissett's lone touchdown came on a play-action pass to an open Austin Hooper in the third quarter, but he gave the defense just as many points, as he threw a pick-six to 49ers linebacker Fred Warner in the second quarter.
New England has to do something about Rhamondre Stevenson, who fumbled again for the fourth time in four weeks. He finished with just 43 yards on 3.3 yards per attempt against San Francisco.
The Patriots' defense was supposed to be the strength of their team and one of the best units in the league, but they didn't look like it on Sunday. They allowed Brock Purdy to throw for 288 yards with a touchdown and an interception (which came from Jabrill Peppers as the quarterback threw into double coverage).
Their issues of keeping containment on the quarterback and holding the edges on the run were apparent again, as Purdy was able to escape pressure multiple times and running back Jordan Mason rushed for 123 yards and a touchdown on 5.1 yards per attempt.
Yes, they're missing Christian Barmore, Ja'Whaun Bentley and Anfernee Jennings, but it shouldn't look that bad, especially when this isn't the first time that they've dealt with the same problems.
New England also had some unfortunate injuries in this game that could be devastating, as center David Andrews, safety Kyle Dugger and offensive tackle Caedan Wallace were all ruled out at different points on Sunday.
With how this team has looked through four weeks, a 1-16 record doesn't feel impossible.
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