Former Illinois Receiver Malik Turner Scores in USFL Conference Championship Game
Malik Turner, a former Illinois receiver, delivered a standout performance in the United Football League’s postseason, helping the Michigan Panthers secure a 44-29 victory over the Birmingham Stallions in the USFL Conference Championship game on Sunday.
Turner, who has been one of the top receivers in the league this season, recorded six receptions for 99 yards in the win. Michigan led from start to finish, with Turner sealing the game late in the third quarter with a spectacular 76-yard touchdown catch-and-run that extended the Panthers’ lead to 17 points.
On the play, Turner channeled his inner Tyreek Hill, flashing the peace sign as he raced to the end zone. As ABC analyst Jordan Rodgers remarked, “It’s still the third quarter – but that felt like a dagger.”
Turner, who has enjoyed a breakout year with the Panthers, now finds himself in a strong position to earn a spot with an NFL team. He finished the regular season with four touchdown receptions, third in the league, and led Michigan’s receivers with 40 catches, while ranking second with 365 receiving yards.
Having spent seven seasons with seven different NFL teams, Turner’s journey in professional football is far from over. A strong performance in the UFL Championship Game against the D.C. Defenders on Saturday could further boost his prospects, and it’s likely that Turner has already done enough to earn at least a minicamp invite once the UFL season ends next weekend.
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