Plant's Marve sets record

Five TD passes in one quarter - the first -are a first in Florida and enough to beat Sickles, 68-7.

By KEITH NIEBUHR
Published September 23, 2006

TAMPA - Robert Marve's first-quarter performance Friday night wasn't just one for the ages.

It was one for the record books.

In a remarkable display of accuracy during Plant's 68-7 win at home against Sickles, the senior quarterback tossed five touchdown strikes in the opening 12 minutes, setting a state mark for touchdown passes in a quarter.

The record had been held by Justin Midgett of Punta Gorda Charlotte, who had four in a quarter four years ago.

"It was God," Marve said. "It had to be God ... because I know I'm not that good."

Those in attendance may beg to differ.

On the night, Marve went 10-of-14 for 234 yards. Most of the damage came during a first-quarter barrage during which he threw touchdown passes to five different receivers in a span of nine minutes, 29 seconds.

For good measure, Marve, who has committed to the University of Alabama, added a 22-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter.

"All of his passes were right there," Plant coach Robert Weiner said. "He put them on the money every time. I haven't seen anything like that. Not five in a quarter."

Marve was so good he overshadowed a spectacular individual effort by teammate Lovell Jackson, who scored via reception (54 yards), punt return (51) and run (61).

The Plant (4-0) defense, which limited Sickles (0-5) to eight first downs, was just as impressive.

"It's not me," Marve said. "It's me - and it's the team."

[Last modified September 23, 2006, 01:52:13]