NFL: New England 7, New Orleans 6

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FOXBOROUGH, Mass., Aug. 9 (UPI) -- Brian Hoyer threw a touchdown pass in the third quarter to give the New England Patriots a lackluster 7-6 pre-season win over New Orleans Thursday.

Hoyer connected with Britt Davis on a 3-yard scoring toss that capped a 97-yard scoring drive.

Hoyer completed 8-of-15 passes for 45 yards in the contest.

Tom Brady opened the game for the Patriots and completed 4-of-7 passes for 30 yards. He was also sacked and fumbled the ball.

Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski came back from off-season ankle surgery and caught two passes for 20 yards.

Drew Brees opened the game at quarterback for New Orleans and went 4-for-6 for 62 yards and an interception. Luke McCown was 9-of-16 for 86 yards in the air.

The Saints got their scoring from Garret Hartley, who kicked a 27-yard field goal, and John Kasay, who booted one of 46 yards. Kasay had a chance to give the Saints the lead with 3:07 left in the game but his 41-yard kick missed.