The San Francisco 49ers will begin preparing for the New England Patriots on the practice field Wednesday, but a few 49ers got an early start on preparations by watching New England play on Monday Night Football.

The Patriots dominated the Houston Texans 42-14 on Monday night and several 49er players were impressed with what they saw. Defensive tackle Ray McDonald said the Patriots looked very good against Houston, while running back Frank Gore said the Patriots were "ballin'."

In addition to seeing the success New England had on Monday, the 49ers are also aware of the success the Patriots have had at home in December. Cornerback Tarell Brown cited the fact that New England has won 20 straight December home games.

One player who didn't watch the Patriots on Monday was wide receiver Randy Moss. Moss, who played for the Patriots from 2007-10, didn't watch the game but did say the Patriots could be San Francisco's toughest test of the season.