Chiefs fourth-down decision, explained: Andy Reid makes puzzling choice that leads to Texans' go-ahead touchdown

Key Highlights

• He has consistently been one of the best head coaches in the Kansas City dynasty, which makes his decision late in the fourth quarter to go for it on fourth down deep in the Chiefs' own territory all the more head-scratching. Here is more on why the Chiefs decided to go for it on fourth down in their own territory in the fourth quarter against the Texans in Week 14. MORE CHIEFS NEWS:6-7 reasons why Chiefs are doomed for 2025How seventh loss in 2025 clinches worst record in Patrick Mahomes eraTexans' defense dominates Chiefs at Arrowhead StadiumWhat Chiefs' loss to Texans means for 2025 playoff chancesKansas City's nine-year divisional streak snaps with Texans lossAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementChiefs fourth-down decision, explainedIt isn't uncommon for teams to line up for it on fourth-and-short.
• The majority of the time, especially in their own territory, the team will do its best to draw the defense offside for a free first down. Kansas City's drive started on its own 22-yard line.
• Quarterback Patrick Mahomes had back-to-back incompletions before he scrambled for a nine-yard run.
• The Chiefs were at their own fourth-and-one and lined up to go for it. To the surprise of everyone, Kansas City actually hiked the ball and went for a pass.
• Mahomes had another incompletion, and it was a turnover on downs. Six plays later, Houston running back Dare Ogunbowale punched in a five-yard touchdown to take the 17-10 lead. MORE: Patrick Mahomes powers through leg injury during 'Sunday Night Football'AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementOn their ensuing drive, Kansas City again faced fourth and short.