Tom passes Texans test

TOM BRADY passed for three first-half touchdowns as the New England Patriots started their season with a 27-20 victory over the Houston Texans.

The five-time Super Bowl champ threw for 277 yards, with his performance in the first half providing the Patriots enough of a cushion to fend off a late fightback from the Texans.

Houston made it close late in the fourth quarter, scoring a touchdown with 2:08 left to cut New England’s lead to seven points. But Brady connected with James Develin to pick up a first down to help run down the clock.