 Turner Gill is signed through the 2012 season
Gill, who earned Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year honors this fall after Buffalo's finest season in its Division I-A history, originally signed a five-year contract in December of 2005. The Fort Worth, TX native led Buffalo to a 5-3 record in the MAC in 2007 including a share of the MAC East Division title with a 4-2 record. The five wins overall were the most by the Bulls since moving up to Division I-A in 1999, and was just one of many milestones achieved by the football team this season.
"I am extremely pleased to reward Turner's outstanding efforts in this way," said Manuel. "He has brought to our football program a winning mentality, stability, confidence and a true vision for excellence both on and off the field. All of the accolades he has received have been richly deserved and I am very happy to know that he will continue to lead our football program for the foreseeable future. On the day we hired Turner I stated that, 'I can't wait to get started with what I think will be a very exciting chapter in Bulls' football history.' I am even more excited about what the future holds for UB football now that I have seen Turner's work over the past two years."
 "The answer to the question many have asked me since my arrival on campus regarding whether the University is committed to supporting football at UB is a resounding yes," said Manuel. "As we approach my fourth season of football at UB, I can state unequivocally that we are well-positioned to not only compete, but win championships. While acknowledging the support of our fan base and students who have stood with us through the years, the time has come for more UB alumni, faculty, staff, students and the people of Western New York to become a part of this program. Turner and the team are bringing an exciting brand of Division I-A football and are working to win championships and showcase this region¹s work ethic, pride and excellence."
Buffalo enjoyed its first winning record at home since moving up to Division I-A and its two MAC road wins were also its best effort since joining the conference. Gill, who also served as the offensive coordinator, directed an offense that scored 291 points - the most in its I-A history and just 28 points shy of the all-time school record.
"I am grateful to President John Simpson and Athletic Director, Warde Manuel for extending my contract and their commitment to both myself and the football program," said Gill. "It is great to know they are as committed to the staff as we are to them. I feel very honored to be at this outstanding University."
Gill was considered to be a finalist for the open coaching vacancy at Nebraska following the firing of Cornhuskers head coach Bill Callahan by athletic director Tom Osborne at the end of the 2007 season.
Gill was the starting quarterback at Nebraska from 1981-1983, leading the Cornhuskers to a 28-2 overall mark as the starting signal caller and was a Heisman Trophy finalist in his final season.
Former LSU defensive coordinator Bo Pelini was eventually hired to replace Callahan at Nebraska.
From press release and staff writers
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