Foxboro, MA (Sports Network) - Tom Brady threw for three touchdowns as New England dispatched Cincinnati, 38-24, in the season-opener for both clubs from Gillette Stadium.

Brady, fresh from agreeing on Thursday to a four-year contract extension reportedly worth $72 million, was an efficient 25-of-35 for 258 yards for the Patriots, who are coming off a 10-6 season and first-round playoff loss in 2009.

Coming off a season-ending torn ACL, Wes Welker struck for eight catches for 64 yards and two-first half scores. Randy Moss added five receptions for 59 yards and Fred Taylor gained 71 yards on 14 carries.

Carson Palmer went 34-of-50 for 345 yards, two touchdowns and one interception for the Bengals, who also finished 10-6 and made a postseason appearance last season.

Chad Ochocinco led all receivers with 12 catches for 159 yards and a score. Terrell Owens made his Cincinnati regular-season debut by hauling in seven balls for 53 yards while Cedric Benson totaled 43 yards and a rushing TD on 15 attempts.