A game that has been played on the fringe of physical and violent has taken another victim.
After apparently recovering a fumble, 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman’s left knee was collapsed in the ensuing pile, and he was carted off the field in the fourth quarter.
The gruesome injury, which was replayed a time or three too many, came on a play which wasn’t reviewed.
On the ensuring fourth-down play at the goal line, Marshawn Lynch fumbled, and the 49ers recovered, trailing 20-17.
If anyone’s left standing, it could be an incredible finish.