New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees made a rare appearance in the fourth preseason game and led the Saints on scoring drive as they went into halftime trailing the Baltimore Ravens 16-6 Thursday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

Brees played just that opening possession and finished 3 of 6 for 40 yards, including a nice back-shoulder connection with receiver Willie Snead IV. The Saints scored on the drive when Kai Forbath made a 36-yard field goal. It was the first time Brees played in the fourth preseason game since his first season with the Saints in 2006. Connor Barth added a 40-yard field goal late in the first quarter.

Most of the starters did not come back after the first series but Andrus Peat remained in to get more reps at left guard after playing most of the preseason at right guard. Luke McCown played most of the rest of the half for the Saints at quarterback until he was replaced following a strip-sack that was recovered by Baltimore in the end zone by Michael Pierce for the lone touchdown in the first half.

Running back Mark Ingram had a strong opening possession as he ran for 21 yards on three carries. Veteran Tim Hightower also had an excellent half with eight carries for 24 yards.

The Ravens did not play starting quarterback Joe Flacco or many of their other starters. Ryan Mallett started at quarterback for Baltimore and was replaced by Josh Johnson in the second quarter. Mallett was 8 of 12 for 65 yards. Justin Tucker had three field goals for the Ravens.

A number of players did not dress out for the Saints: tackle Terron Armstead, guard Senio Kelemete, linebacker Dannell Ellerbe, cornerback Delvin Breaux, tight end Michael Hoomananawanui, defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins,  running back Travaris Cadet and linebacker Nate Stupar.