San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has hailed the performances of rookie linebacker Chris Borland this season.
The 23-year-old was forced into starting duty for Jim Harbaugh's side due to injuries to All-Pro linebackers Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman, but has been solid in the middle of the defense.
Borland helped guide his side to victory over the New York Giants with two crucial interceptions of Eli Manning, including one late in the fourth quarter.
"Yeah, he's been playing amazing, stepping up," Kaepernick told reporters. "Our defense hasn't missed a beat with him in there.
"He's made a lot of plays and he's someone, I think, since training camp and OTA's everyone was excited to see what he could do when he got the chance. And, I mean, he's taking full advantage of it."
Borland has recorded 63 tackles, one sack and two interceptions for the 49ers this season after being selected in the third round of the 2014 Draft.
Simon Sinclair
