49ers loss of Nick Bosa vs. Cowboys is potentially devastating

The 49ers may have the lead in the Wild Card round over the Cowboys, but losing EDGE Nick Bosa to a concussion is a massive loss.

If the San Francisco 49ers are going to hold onto their lead against the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card round, they’ll have to do so without Pro Bowl EDGE Nick Bosa.

The Niners got out to a 16-0 first-half lead with the offense driving much of the momentum, and at least early on, San Francisco’s defense was able to frustrate Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott enough to force a quick 3-and-out.

That won’t work for a long time against the NFL’s No. 1-ranked offense over the course of four quarters, though.

Bosa already registered half a sack during the game, splitting his takedown of Prescott with fellow EDGE Samson Ebukam.

Late in the second quarter, though, Bosa was able to draw a holding penalty but was awkwardly hit in the helmet by fellow defensive lineman D.J. Jones, which forced Bosa to come out of the game and enter the blue medical tent.

After exiting to the locker room early, San Francisco subsequently ruled Bosa out with a concussion:

A massive blow for the 49ers, who entered the game about as healthy as they’ve been all season long.

Read More: 49ers will need more that just field goals to beat Cowboys

49ers will need other defenders to step up vs. Cowboys with Nick Bosa out

Jones recorded a sack on Prescott to help make up for hitting Bosa, which was followed by nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams picking Prescott off the very next play.

Those are the kinds of efforts the Niners will need if they want to retain their lead.

Fortunately, wide receiver Deebo Samuel picked up a much-needed touchdown after San Francisco forced the turnover, increasing the lead to 23-7 the very next play:

Still, Dallas’ offense is too dangerous to consider this late third-quarter lead a safe one, and the 49ers will need players like Jones, Williams, Ebukam and others to continue stepping up on defense until the final whistle.