Top 14 Observations: Houston Texans vs. New Orleans Saints

Aug 20, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) shakes hands with quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) after a game at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 16-9. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) shakes hands with quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) after a game at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 16-9. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
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Aug 20, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans running back Akeem Hunt (33) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 16-9. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans running back Akeem Hunt (33) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 16-9. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Observations 13-14 / Texans vs. Saints

  • The starting offensive unit was much crisper against the Saints. Offensive back-ups played a strong game against the 49ers but were less effective this week. It should be noted that the 49ers and Saints were among the worst defenses last season. The upcoming game against the Cardinals will provide a much clearer picture of where the Texans offense stands.

Next: Do The Texans Need Brandon Weeden?

  • With Jadeveon Clowney and Brian Cushing back in the line-up and Christian Covington significantly elevating his game the starting defense played much better against the potent Saints. It looked capable in the short-term of withstanding the loss of J.J. Watt until he is fully recovered. He should be able to ease his way back into the line-up, not having to carry a full load from the opening game.

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