THREE THINGS TO KNOW
1. BREES ROLLING: Despite throwing a career-high 22 interceptions in 2010, Drew Brees has none this season. He’s actually gone 14 quarters and attempted 160 passes without a pick counting the wildcard playoff game at Seattle.
2. PAYBACK TIME: After starting 2-7 against the AFC in his first stint as a head coach, Sean Payton has won 10 of his last 12 from the other conference — including a win over Indianapolis in Super Bowl XLIV.
3. ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY: The Texans are 2-0 for the third time in the franchise’s 10-year history. They also started with two wins in 2007, finishing 8-8, and in 2010 before ending up with a 6-10 mark.
WHO HAS THE EDGE
Offense – Saints
Defense – Texans
Special teams – Saints
Intangibles – Saints
PREDICTION
The Texans lead the NFL in fewest yards allowed, fewest passing yards allowed and scoring defense after playing the Colts without Peyton Manning and Dolphins with Chad Henne. Drew Brees and his offense present a much different challenge.
SAINTS 31, TEXANS 21
–Sheldon Mickles
