Neither team made much noise in the early stages of the first quarter as both sides worked out the offseason kinks, and the New Orleans Saints carried a 3-0 lead over the New England Patriots into the second quarter in Thursday's Pats preseason opener.
John Kasay's 46-yard field goal was the game's first score at 8:35 in the first, concluding a four-play, six-yard drive. New Orleans assumed possession after Will Smith sacked Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who fumbled and turned the ball over.
After the Patriots' defense forced a three-and-out on the opening drive of the game, the Patriots followed suit and couldn't get a first down of their own, but caught a break on a Saints penalty, giving them new life. Brady's first drive didn't go very well, as he couldn't connect on his first pass with Rob Gronkowski or his next pass to Brandon Lloyd.
As for Brees, his first two passes were also incomplete. Brees was subbed out midway through the first quarter after only six snaps. He finished with four passing yards (1-for-4). Brady, meanwhile, completed 4-of-7 passes for 30 yards in his first preseason action.
Between the two teams, there were seven penalties, with the Pats committing four.
For more Patriots Preseason 2012 coverage, follow our stream and visit Pats Pulpit