First quarter update: Powered by a 39-yard run by running back Ben Tate the Houston Texans marched 69 yards on nine plays to take a 7-0 lead on Tate's 1-yard TD dive.
The Saints' offense couldn't get on the scoreboard in the opening period as it was saddled with bad field position on its first possession and then a sack of quarterback Drew Brees ended the team's second possession. The Saints rested starting wide receiver Marques Colston and right guard Jahri Evans. Eric Olsen got the start at right guard.
Key stats: Saints: Drew Brees, 2 of 24 for 24 yards; Pierre Thomas, 3 carries for 10 yards. Texans: Matt Schaub, 7 of 10 for 91 yards. Ben Tate, 8 carries for 69 yards. Andre Johnson, 3 catches for 46 yards.