After playing eight games as a redshirt freshman, sophomore running back Jesse Turner gains playing time and sets school records for the Colonels.As a freshman, Turner had one carry for one yard against Air Force Academy and was moved from running back to back up defensive back midway through the season.

This season, Turner has seen a significant increase in playing time. During the homecoming game against Bacone State, Turner ran a career-high four touchdowns that tied the school record. Turner also set the single game school record with a 14 yards per carry average. Turner’s 87 yard touchdown marked the second highest in school history.

Turner’s performance in this year’s homecoming game made him the Southland Conference Player of the Week in September.

“You’ve got to be excited about that,” Turner said. “I always work hard to be in this position. All of the hard work is starting to pay off. I’m just hoping to keep it up.”

Turner currently has 93 carries with a net total of 573 rushing yards. He also has eight touchdowns this season along with 299 receiving yards.

Turner is ranked number two in the Southland Conference in rushing.

The Colonels have recorded two wins and five losses this season.

“Unfortunately we’ve lost some tough games, but we’re getting better,” Turner said. “We know things can’t happen overnight. We are getting the grasp of our new offense, and I think Coach used a great example when he said Thomas Edison didn’t make the light bulb overnight.