Nick Bosa erases Colts drive, forces crazy turnover for 49ers

Nick Bosa is an elite football player, and he showed it during Sunday Night Football against the Colts, making a game-changing play in the red zone.

When people think about elite edge rushers, the primary stat that comes to mind are sacks.

But as fans and analysts are realizing, the mere pressure of an elite edge can absolutely wreck havoc on a team.

Football fans saw that on full display when San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa single-handedly ended the Indianapolis Colts drive.

Heading in, the Niners had been flagged on yet another third-down pass interference, had just given up a huge run by Johnathan Taylor to get to the red zone and had finally slowed the Colts down with one strong run stop by Azeez Al-Shaair. They had two chances for interceptions and missed them both, which would have only added to the spiral on defense.

But in this play, Bosa evaded offensive tackle Eric Fisher after cleanly beating him off the line and most importantly, never stops pursuing.

Bosa hit Colts quarterback Wentz during the throwing motion, forcing a turnover that otherwise would likely have not happened. This won’t go on the stat sheets as a sack, but it’s irreputable proof of the impact a player like Bosa has. His very presence on the field puts pressure on the offense, and when he actualizes on it, the rewards are that much sweeter.

Also important is that Azeez Al-Shaair had the presence of mind to grab the ball, but this is all on Bosa.

For the 49ers, who have been scuffling with an 0-3 stretch, they need their best players to play like their best players. That’s what the elite do; when the light is bright and the team needs a spark, they come out to play.

And that’s what Nick Bosa did.