Quarterback: B

Brian Hoyer completed his first 11 passes and helped stake the Texans to a 14-0 lead. He spread the ball around and managed the game in impressive fashion.

Running backs: A

The Texans ran 38 times for 167 yards and a 4.4-yard average per carry. Led by Alfred Blue's 16 carries for 77 yards, six players carried the ball, including four backs.

Receivers/tight ends: B

Ryan Griffin and C.J. Fiedorowicz combined for six catches and 92 yards. Griffin scored a touchdown. Cecil Shorts III scored on a shovel pass. DeAndre Hopkins had five catches against double coverage.

Offensive line: A

The linemen did a terrific job on pass protection, and their physical run-blocking was impressive. Brian Hoyer was sacked once. At times, he almost had too much time to throw.

Defensive line: A

Led by J.J. Watt's two sacks and seven quarterback hits, the linemen shut down the run and harassed Drew Brees into 19 incompletions and a 61.6 QB rating.

Linebackers: A

They did an excellent job against the run. They swarmed to the ball and tackled well. They did their best job in coverage this season. They also put a lot of pressure on Drew Brees.

Defensive backs: A

Ignited by another outstanding performance from Johnathan Joseph, the defensive backs did their best job of coverage this season. Kareem Jackson returned and intercepted his first pass.

Special teams: B-

With the exception of a 12-yard punt return, the coverage teams were all over the Saints' returners. Nick Novak kicked a 34-yard field goal. Shane Lechler had a 29.3-yard net to go with three touchbacks.

Coaching: A

Another exceptional coaching job by Bill O'Brien and his staff. Romeo Crennel's defense continues to dominate. George Godsey's play-calling has been shrewd, especially for running plays.

John McClain