Wasn't Hou Ken predominantly regarded as a frontline general for the Zhao army due to his martial prowess?
Typically, Riboku handled the strategic and tactical aspects in battles where Houken participated, while Hou Ken contributed by slaughtering enemies in front. Capabilites directly related to leadership and intelligence isn't needed as much in comparison to combat ability. Houken's leadership and intelligence ratings shouldn't be considered extraordinary, especially when compared to other generals, aside from his remarkable strength and combat ability, which has been stated to exceed 100.
Houken never held much weight as a general, primarily because he lacked extensive battlefield experience, including personal responsibility for thousands, if not more, of his own troops on the front lines. This particular issue only hindered him in situations where he had to fight against opponents somewhat comparable to him in strength (Ouki, Shin going full Kaio-Ken during a critical moment in a battle). Other than those two opponents that he faced, Hou Ken's martial ability was strong enough that every other general folded to his might.
Even with a difference of 1 strength rating between two fighters, it usually doesn't take many pages in the chapter to show who is the better/more skilled fighter over the other...
Like Shin (in his normal state) vs Ouhon in their "sparring match"...