NFL Week 1 rookie highlights: The Nick Bosa theorem

Nick Bosa, DE, San Francisco 49ers

3 tackles, 1 sack

Coming out of the draft this year, Ohio State product Nick Bosa (brother of Joey Bosa) displays many of the same qualities and traits his brother did. Both are some of the most refined pass rushing prospects by technique, but lacked the raw athleticism of some other prospects.

Nick proved “The Bosa Theorem” correct: “If a Bosa pass rushes a tackle with equal or better technique than them, they will most likely be locked down by superior athleticism. But if an opposing tackle has inferior technique, the Bosa will succeed.”

Bosa had an important pressure on Winston for the 49ers second pick six, as well as an easy sack opportunity on Winston if it weren’t for some elusiveness from the quarterback. Both times, the tackle used poor technique (ex: leaning into the block and being swim-moved around) and was dominated by Bosa’s polished pass rushing.

Buccaneers left tackle Donovan Smith is by no means an elite talent, and only showed sufficient technique to handle Bosa on some occasions, showing possible concern for the rookie after a decent week 1 performance.

Bosa will face the Cincinnati Bengals next week, but will then face his first serious test against a left tackle in Alejandro Villanueva in week three against the Steelers.