Willie Parker ran for three touchdowns and Hines Ward caught two scoring passes from Ben Roethlisberger as the Steelers romped to a 38-17 victory over the Houston Texans today in the season opener at Heinz Field.

In the first half Parker ran for two touchdowns and Hines caught a pass from Roethlisberger for a third as the Steelers led Houston 21-3 after the first two quarters of play in their season opener.

Parker ran for his third touchdown and Ward caught his second touchdown reception from Roethlisberger as the Steelers romped to a 35-3 lead in the third.

Houston's only score before a fourth quarter flurry came after Kris Brown kicked a 34-yard field goal.

Postgame coverage at Blog 'n' Gold