South Dakota's secondary is quickly becoming a focal point for NFL scouts, thanks in large part to the leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since joining the South Dakota Coyotes in 2020, Taylor has methodically cultivated a robust secondary, earning accolades not just for himself but for his standout players.
Coach Miles Taylor: A Legacy of Excellence
Coach Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, brings a depth of knowledge and experience to South Dakota. His tenure has seen the rise of talents like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter, two players who have thrived under his tutelage. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have both developed into key components of the Coyotes' defense.
Spotlight on the Players
Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter are the names on everyone's lips as they prepare to face Southern Illinois on September 28. Reid's physicality and size make him a nightmare for opposing wide receivers, while Shorter's agility and instincts allow him to make game-changing plays from the safety position.
Another former player who has tasted success at the next level is Myles Harden. Harden's journey from South Dakota to the professional ranks was marked by his participation in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, an honor reserved for some of the most promising talents in college football. Harden's performance led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, a testament to the quality of players emerging from South Dakota's program.
A Broader Look at Rising Talents
While South Dakota is making headlines, other programs are also showcasing remarkable talents. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca is a multi-sport athlete who has excelled not just on the football field but also on the track. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash, clocking in at an impressive 6.72 seconds. He also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne's athleticism will be on display in Ithaca's upcoming game against Curry College on September 28.
Moving to Central Missouri, Zach Zebrowski has been making waves after winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, an award given annually to the best player in NCAA Division II football. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's physical prowess and football IQ have led Central Missouri to numerous victories. His next challenge comes against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, a game that promises to be a showcase of his talents.
In Canada, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University is another player worth watching. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, demonstrating his skills among the best in Canadian university football. His upcoming game against Carleton on September 28 is highly anticipated by scouts and fans alike.
The Future of Talented Players
The upcoming games on September 28 will not only be critical for the teams involved but also for the players who are looking to make a lasting impact. Mike Reid, Dennis Shorter, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, Zach Zebrowski, and Brandon Davies-Lyons are poised to showcase their skills, further solidifying their reputations and catching the eyes of scouts at the next level.
As these players prepare for their respective matchups, it's clear that the coaching and development they have received have played significant roles in their success. Whether it's the expert guidance of Coach Miles Taylor at South Dakota or the rigorous training regimens at their respective institutions, these athletes are primed for excellence.
The talent pipeline in collegiate football continues to thrive, and with coaches like Taylor leading the way, the future looks bright not just for the players but for the sport as a whole.