The San Francisco 49ers had many questions when they entered into the regular season a month ago, and there were even more worries emanating from the fanbase. But through four weeks, not only have many of those questions been answered, but some of the primary concerns have turned out to be some of their biggest strengths.
That being said, head coach Kyle Shanahan and the Niners have learned some good lessons along the way to a 4-0 start.
Nobody has touched Brock Purdy yet
The offensive line was in distress with the departure of Spencer Burford and Ben Bartch, and the 49ers quickly filled the holes with veteran free-agent signings for depth, while extending Trent Williams on a two-year, $50 million deal.
But Shanahan didn't need to worry.
Through four weeks, the Niners' offensive line has yet to give up a sack, the only team in the NFL to do so. This is both a compliment to the offensive line, but also to quarterback Brock Purdy, who has been playing at an MVP level to start the season.
With some challenging games ahead on the schedule, the 49ers will really put their line to the test.
49ers defense does not rise and fall with Bosa anymore
Nick Bosa has been a fearsome name in the NFL for a long time, and his presence on the Niners defense causes any opposing offense to alter their game plan around him. The Miami Dolphins in Week 2 did an efficient job of working around him, boxing him out of most plays. They did this well enough to limit Bosa to only three tackle assists on the day before he ultimately was kept out of the lineup in Week 3 because of injury.
This taught Shanahan that Bosa isn't necessarily needed to wreck a game. Though the Cardinals were able to put 30 points on the board in Week 3, the 49ers boast the highest point differential to date, posting a plus-58.
Everything still runs through Fred Warner
The final lesson this season has taught that Fred Warner is still very much as effective as he's always been.
With Bosa out of the lineup for the last two contests, Warner has needed to provide the spark on defense, and he's shined through each time. Warner leads the 49ers with 40 tackles on the year, and he's already forced two different fumbles.
The Niners didn't stumble their way into 4-0, they fought and earned their way there. An offensive line holding through four weeks doesn't mean it will hold for eight, and Bosa can make a heavy impact when he's healthy.
But with Warner still playing his best football, this team always has its heartbeat exactly where it needs it.
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