Colts vs Giants: When NFL rules protecting quarterbacks results in a missed sack

The NFL wants to protect quarterbacks, but maybe not like this.

Jaylon Smith of the New York Giants had a clean run on Indianapolis Colts quarterback Nick Foles in the second quarter Sunday. Not wanting to draw a roughing-the-passer penalty, Smith made contact but did not tackle Foles, believing the QB was releasing the ball.

Only, Foles didn't, at least initially. The play ends with an incomplete pass.

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Former Colts pass rusher Robert Mathis couldn't believe it.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Colts vs Giants: Jaylon Smith lets up as he hits Nick Foles , misses sack