Five things we learned about the 49ers in their win over the Seahawks

SEATTLE – The 49ers defeated a mediocre Seahawks team and improved their record to 3-3. Here are five things we learned about the 49ers from this outing.

Rookie safety Malik Mustapha intercepted Geno Smith first. Next, rookie cornerback Renardo Green intercepted him. Rookie running back Isaac Guerendo sealed the win with a 76-yard plunge, and rookie right guard Dominick Puni created the hole for him. Additionally, rookie linebacker Tatum Bethune recovered a fumble on special teams. The only rookie who didn't play well was rookie punt returner Jacob Cowing, who couldn't stay on his feet but still has potential as a wide receiver. And Ricky Pearsall will start practicing this week. What a rookie class.

It faced a Seahawks offense that isn't particularly good. But with 4:46 left in the game, the 49ers allowed a 52-yard touchdown pass to DK Metcalf that didn't count because the Seahawks called an illegal shift penalty. Which means the 49ers got lucky. Three minutes later, the 49ers gave up a touchdown catch to Tyler Lockett, cutting their lead to five points. Every week the 49ers defense seems to get weaker in the fourth quarter.

The 49ers gave up a kick return for a touchdown. Later in the game, kicker Matthew Wright separated his shoulder on a tackle to prevent a second kick return for a touchdown. Just last week, Jake Moody did the same thing. The 49ers might have the worst special teams in the league. It will cost them more games this season.

The 49ers scored three touchdowns in the red zone, but also kicked a 25-yard field goal, a 35-yard field goal and a 41-yard field goal. The 49ers have far too much talent on offense to be stopped half the time they are inside the 25 yard line. And yet they are extremely reliant on George Kittle making difficult catches in the end zone. Where is the creativity?

He's not a bad quarterback, but he's not a good one either. He plays just well enough to lose. He definitely doesn't praise his team. In fact, he's holding back a talented Seahawks offense. That's why he's 0-5 against the 49ers. You could replace him with Jimmy Garoppolo and the Seahawks would be no worse. They know the 49ers hope Smith remains the Seahawks' quarterback for years to come.

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