Turner’s a quiet force

Published 9:17 am Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Escambia Academy’s Louie Turner rushes for a gain during an earlier game this season. Turner has been rushing his way through a good year for the Cougars. | Andrew Garner/Atmore Advance

Escambia Academy’s Louie Turner rushes for a gain during an earlier game this season. Turner has been rushing his way through a good year for the Cougars. | Andrew Garner/Atmore Advance

Trae “Louie” Turner may not say much, which isn’t surprising because the Escambia Academy junior running back lets his play on the gridiron speak for itself.

Turner and standout running back Kris Brown are leading the Cougars on the ground. Turner has 407 yards and scored nine touchdowns through five games this season.

Last week at Clarke Prep, Turner rushed for 159 yards on 10 carries and accounted for three touchdowns — two rushing and one receiving — in EA’s 35-0 win to earn The Atmore Advance’s Player of the Week honors.

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Speaking low and just out of ear shot, Turner said he’s been playing football for some eight years.

In fact, other than playing at running back, Turner plays on defense at linebacker.

“I’ve always loved playing football,” Turner said.

While Turner has been at EA, the running back said he’s learned a lot about the position. He said running backs coach Marty Long has been a big help. Long can be heard yelling “Come on, Louie!” at times on the sideline.

Turner said all of his teammates have helped him succeed this season, especially the offensive line.

A notable player who Turner said he models his game after is former Alabama running back and Heisman Trophy Winner Derrick Henry.

Turner is the son of Sharon Taylor of Atmore, and is the nephew of Kendrick McNeal.