Chiefs' game-wrecker proves practice makes perfect after admitting past mistake led to crucial sack of Texans' C.J. Stroud
Kansas City Chiefs DE George Karlaftis had what might be the single-most impactful performance of his young career during the AFC divisional round game against the Houston Texans. But how it all started is the real story. Karlaftis was a game-wrecker in every sense of the word, turning things on at the most important juncture […]
Kansas City Chiefs DE George Karlaftis had what might be the single-most impactful performance of his young career during the AFC divisional round game against the Houston Texans. But how it all started is the real story.
Karlaftis was a game-wrecker in every sense of the word, turning things on at the most important juncture of the game. With just over 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and a 23-12 lead, Kansas City's defense needed to get off the field and put the ball in the hands of the offense to help ice the game.
The Texans faced a fourth down at the Chiefs' 40-yard line, but they came out of the huddle late, with just five seconds left on the play clock. Most would probably expect a timeout as they had three remaining, but C.J. Stroud snapped the ball. Karlaftis worked against Houston's left tackle and got free to chase down Stroud for a sack around the Texans' 45-yard line.
Asked about this play after the game, Karlaftis explained that it might not have happened if he hadn't messed up on the same protection call during the practice week.
"I knew the protection because I actually messed that play up on our Thursday practice," Karlaftis said. "And they're like, oh, you know what? So, I'm glad I messed that up on Thursday, so I got it right on game day."
What exactly did he mess up? He allowed the quarterback to step up and escape to the outside. So, this time he flattened his path to the quarterback to ensure that Stroud could step up and escape.
"I lost contain on the quarterback, so he got outside," Karlaftis continued. "So, I made sure not to do that."
It's true what they say: Practice makes perfect. And the Chiefs practice and prepare better than any other team in the NFL. They're meticulous and detail-oriented to the point of obsession. This play is the perfect example, given that he could recognize the protection call and execute, even with the sped-up process from Houston with the play clock winding down.
This would be the first of three sacks for Karlaftis on the night. He says that nothing changed after this particular sack. Instead, he selflessly shared the credit with his teammates for what would become a dominant night for the third-year professional.
"I think just all of us working together," Karlaftis said. "The guys up front, working with the guys in the back half, and you know, just playing as one and trusting in the call and trusting in each other."
As humble as Karlaftis was about his impactful night, Chris Jones ensured that none of it would go to his head.
"I just told him, 'Don't get too high. Next game, they're gonna be planning for you, buddy.'"
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