The Houston Texans are highly regarded as a potential sleeper playoff team this year in the AFC. And entering Week 1, many figured they were prime candidates to pull off an upset of the Pittsburgh Steelers. So much for that – Pittsburgh crushed mounted a 35-3 lead and eventually routed the Texans 38-17.
Two main concerns for the Steelers entering the season were the offensive line and the health of Willie Parker. Both looked fine Sunday as Parker rushed for 138 yards on 25 carries and the o-line kept Ben Roethlisberger (13 for 14, 137 yards, 2 TDs) upright.
Houston QB Matt Schaub was largely effective, throwing for 202 yards on 25 of 33 passing and a touchdown. But he threw back-to-back interceptions in the first half, one leading to a Steelers’ touchdown. As for the Texans’ running game, which was a concern entering the season, didn’t quell any fears. Houston totaled just 75 yards on the ground.
