Ben Solak's 'Next Ben Stats' from Week 3 highlight crucial data points that didn't make the broadcast but reveal key storylines. The Houston Texans lost 3.6% win probability (per ESPN's model) on a fourth-and-4 field goal attempt while trailing 16-7 to the Indianapolis Colts with 7:36 remaining. The NFL Next Gen Stats model was even harsher, pegging the loss at 5.5%. Houston coach De Meco Ryans continued his pattern of conservative fourth-down decisions, also costing 7.4% win probability on a fourth-and-1 against Cincinnati the prior week. Despite forcing a fumble and scoring a go-ahead touchdown, the Texans allowed the Colts to reclaim the lead with a field goal after Ryans let the clock expire before calling timeouts. Daniel Jones threw for 198 of his 235 passing yards between the numbers, posting a 113.0 passer rating and 13.3 total EPA on such throws. The Texans' defensive struggles in the middle of the field were exacerbated by injuries to Henry To'o To'o and Azeez Al-Shaair, leaving backups exposed against quick-rhythm throws.

Ryans' conservative play-calling continues to haunt Houston's offense-deficient squad. With a struggling offense, going for fourth downs near the end zone becomes critical, yet defensive-minded coaches often default to safer options.

Jones' success targeting the intermediate middle exploited Houston's depleted linebacking corps, minimizing the impact of their pass rush.