Turner, Chargers clear big hurdle

0 Comments | USA TODAY, January, 2008 | by Jarrett Bell

SAN DIEGO -- A few months ago, they taunted Norv Turner with a simple chant.

"Mar-ty! Mar-ty!"

This came from the home crowd at Qualcomm Stadium, as the San Diego Chargers were off to a 1-3 start. Inspired by frustration, it had the pulse-meter impact of an exit poll at a presidential primary.

Marty Schottenheimer, the ousted coach whom Turner replaced, still carried the precinct as the people's choice.

Fast-forward to Sunday: As Turner sprinted off the field after a 17-6 victory against the Tennessee Titans that propelled the Chargers into a divisional game at the Indianapolis Colts, it was apparent his approval rating has skyrocketed.

As he headed into the tunnel, Turner was showered with applause. He glanced toward the...