It was over when ...
Ben Roethlisberger connected with Hines Ward in the end zone for the second time, putting the Steelers up 34-3 in the third quarter. Pittsburgh has won its season-opener for the sixth straight year, the longest Kickoff Weekend winning streak in the NFL.
Game balls
The Steelers offensive line was a concern headed into the season, but the group proved it is not a liability, as the left side, anchored by Marvel Smith and Chris Kemoeatu, opened up holes for RB Willie Parker, who rushed for three scores. The line also kept QB Ben Roethlisberger comfortable all day.
Key stat
The Texans converted only three of 10 third-down tries and were held to 75 yards on the ground.
Noteworthy
Parker rushed for more touchdowns in the game than he did all of last season... Matt Schaub is 4-10 in his career as a starter; 1-7 on the road... Mario Williams has recorded at least one sack in seven of his last eight games... The Texans have brought down the opposing QB in 18 consecutive games.
