Laiatu Latu’s latest interception puts him in historic NFL territory

The Indianapolis Colts were set to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in a must-win game for both teams, though the stakes were considerably higher for the Chiefs. The Colts have been struggling a bit the past couple of weeks, but for the most part, it isn't too much of a worry.

After all, Indy's spot in the playoffs is pretty much guaranteed, but a win would still silence the doubters and affirm that the Colts are the real thing. We aren't quite there yet, though, as Indy lost 23-20 in overtime.

The Chiefs, though, would have likely been knocked out of playoff contention with a loss. Unfortunately, Kansas City was able to walk away with a win, but it wasn't because the defense wasn't trying its hardest — and Laiatu Latu was clearly the star.

There were high hopes for Latu in his rookie season, and while he performed well enough, it wasn't quite what many fans wanted. His sophomore year, however, is nothing short of explosive. He has been versatile and dangerous, and if the league hadn't been taking notice before, they sure will be now.

Laiatu Latu joins elite company with another standout play for the Colts

Latu came out swinging right at the beginning of the game, tipping off a pass from Mahomes, and then catching it himself, for his third interception of the season. While he fell short of the touchdown, he set up the offense with perfect field position, and Daniel Jones easily led his unit to the Colts' first touchdown of the game.

That play set the stage for the rest of the game, in which the Chiefs were constantly trying to catch up to the Colts all day. The Chiefs eventually were able to get it together, but it was a tough game for them, and there's no denying the credit the defense deserves for shutting down Mahomes & Co. through most of the game.

But for Latu specifically, it was even more impressive. He's racked up three interceptions in 11 games so far this season, which is absolutely insane. As a defensive end, that's a crazy accomplishment; he didn't have any interceptions last season, which is expected for his position. Instead, he was getting sacks and forced fumbles, like most members of the defensive line.

This season, though, Latu has been performing better every week, and that includes his ability to get interceptions. At this point, he could very well get another few before the year is up, but even if he doesn't, he's already landed himself in elite company.

What he just did, only two other defensive linemen have done since 1990. As Dante Koplowitz-Fleming, a senior researcher for the NFL, pointed out:

It's safe to say that Latu has been having a very impressive season. He leads the Colts in interceptions, and on top of that, has 38 pressures and six sacks. He has improved in a big way under Lou Anarumo, and there are no signs that he'll be slowing down anytime soon.