Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, November 13, 1995 TAG: 9511140030
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: MIAMI LENGTH: Medium
The Miami Dolphins' quarterback surpassed Fran Tarkenton's NFL career record for passing yardage in a 34-17 loss to New England. Marino's record-breaker, a 9-yard completion to Irving Fryar, came 4:20 into the game.
Marino finished with 333 yards, increasing his total to 47,299 yards in 13 seasons. Tarkenton threw for 47,003 yards in 18 years.
While completing 27 of 37 attempts with two touchdown passes, Marino also was intercepted twice and lost a fumble that led to the Patriots' tie-breaking touchdown.
``We should win these games,'' Marino said. ``Playing in Joe Robbie Stadium, playing teams we're supposed to be beating, it's frustrating.''
Marino needs just three touchdown passes to top Tarkenton's record of 342. Tarkenton has been invited to attend Miami's game next Monday night at home against San Francisco.
Marino surpassed Tarkenton's career record for completions this season, also in a loss.
``For a guy who's had a career like Dan, I'd love to have him enjoy his accomplishments,'' Miami coach Don Shula said. ``He's not enjoying them now, I can tell you that.''
Marino began the game needing 38 yards to break the yardage record. He hit Fryar with a 20-yard completion on the game's first play, but his next pass was intercepted by Vincent Brown.
On Miami's next possession, Marino connected with Eric Green for 14 yards. Following a running play, Marino hit Fryar on a square-out for a first down and the record.
``I knew I was close,'' Marino said. ``It was going through my mind. It's nice to get that many yards and be No.1.''
The crowd erupted with a roar even before the record was announced. Marino shook hands with his teammates and trotted to the sideline with the game ball, which will be shipped to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He hugged Shula, then took off his helmet and waved to the crowd.
Among those in attendance were Mark Duper and Mark Clayton, retired players who caught more passes from Marino than anyone else.
Marino already held the NFL record for passing yardage in one season with 5,084 in 1984. He has thrown for 400 yards in a game 12 times, another league record.
Despite missing two games this season with injuries, Marino, 34, is on pace for his 11th 3,000-yard season, which would extend an NFL record.
Marino's first NFL completion was a 9-yarder to Duper on Sept.18, 1983.
Tarkenton played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1961 to 1966 and from 1972 to 1978. He was with the New York Giants from 1967 to 1971.
by CNB