SF 49ers: Top 5 takeaways from Week 7 demolishing of Patriots

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San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports /

Takeaway No. 1: SF 49ers have a star in the making with Brandon Aiyuk

The SF 49ers could have had a shot at one of a number of other top-tier wideouts in the 2020 NFL Draft, namely Alabama’s Jerry Jeudy, Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb, Alabama’s Henry Ruggs or LSU’s Justin Jefferson.

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Instead, Kyle Shanahan put a priority on Arizona State’s Brandon Aiyuk, and he finally had his breakout game in Week 7, recording his first 100-yard game by putting up 115 yards on six receptions and nearly recording his fourth touchdown after hauling in a deep bomb from Jimmy Garoppolo that went for 35 yards and should have been a score.

At least according to Shanahan, who said as much after the game.

What makes Aiyuk so dangerous is his impressive wingspan and catch radius, plus the fact he fits right into Shanahan’s mantra of getting receivers who can create yards after the catch. While much of this focus is centered on fellow wideout Deebo Samuel and tight end George Kittle, Aiyuk is already demonstrating his ability to fit in perfectly with the so-called “YAC Bros.”

An additional thing to consider here is Aiyuk taking advantage of other teams’ focuses on players like Samuel and Kittle, which will frequently leave the rookie in one-on-one coverage.

As he matures and develops, that only adds to Aiyuk’s potential first-year impact.

Next. 49ers' 3 biggest unsung heroes from Week 7 win vs. Patriots. dark

So far, it’s been plenty of fun to watch.