In a game the Texans lost star tight end Owen Daniels to what's feared to be a severe knee injury, Slaton was sent to the bench after losing his fifth fumble of the season. But Moats took control, becoming the first player in franchise history to score three touchdowns in one game in a 31-10 win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.
"I wasn't thinking about that," Moats said, referring to setting personal and team records. "I was thinking about the time that I would get and try to do the best that I could."
Thanks to Moats, a six-year career backup, the Texans (5-3) won their third straight, second in a row on the road, and are off to the best start in team history.
Moats finished with 126 yards rushing and another 25 yards receiving, and more important, went without a turnover in scoring touchdowns on three straight fourth-quarter possessions.
He got in the game after Slaton lost a fumble on the Texans' third drive as part of a three-turnover first half.
Coach Gary Kubiak wouldn't say whether Slaton lost his job, and was more concerned about Daniels, who didn't return after hurting his right knee. Kubiak said "It doesn't look good."
Walking on crutches, Daniels acknowledged he's afraid the injury could be season ending.
