The senior running back was brought to tears Saturday following the team’s win over Charlotte as he thanked coach David Bailiff for believing in him in an emotional speech.
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“I just want to say thanks to Coach Bailiff because that man right there gave me a chance, when nobody else wanted to give me a chance,” Turner said. “This is my only Division I offer. I broke my leg my senior year of high school and everyone sold me off. That man right there stuck with me. I love him forever for it.”
Turner finished his four-year career at Rice with 503 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns with 18 catches for 244 yards and three touchdowns. He added 158 yards and five touchdowns as a passer.
Bailiff, who concluded his ninth season at Rice, has led the Owls to bowl games in three consecutive seasons from 2012-2014.
With the victory over the 49ers this weekend, the Owls (5-7) could still earn an invitation to a bowl game.
