The South Dakota Coyotes' secondary has been turning heads in the NFL scouting community, thanks largely to the leadership and tutelage of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Having joined the coaching staff in 2020, Taylor, a former standout at Iowa, has been pivotal in shaping a resilient unit that boasts promising talent like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter.
Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have both shown immense potential under Taylor's guidance. These players are not just physically impressive; they also exhibit a high football IQ and an unwavering determination, traits that have clearly been instilled by Coach Taylor. Their next challenge comes on September 28 when they face Southern Illinois, a game that could further bolster their draft profiles.
One cannot ignore the success stories that have emerged from under Taylor's coaching umbrella. Myles Harden, a former player for South Dakota, showcased his skills at the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl and was later selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from collegiate standout to NFL draftee is a testament to Taylor's ability to nurture and develop top-tier talent.
Athletic prowess extends beyond the gridiron in the world of collegiate sports. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne has made his mark at Ithaca not only in football but also on the track. Leonard-Osbourne captured the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His speed and athletic ability are sure to be on display again in his next game against Curry College on September 28.
In the realm of college football awards, Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has been a name to watch. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's remarkable performances on the field earned him the Harlon Hill Trophy, an accolade that symbolizes the pinnacle of achievement in Division II football. His next test comes on September 28 against Nebraska-Kearney, where he will look to further cement his status as one of the elite players in his division.
Across the border in Canada, the spotlight shines on Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound lineman showcased his skills in the Usports East-West Bowl, a platform that highlights the best Canadian collegiate talent. Davies-Lyons has his sights set on his next game against Carleton on September 28, where his performance will undoubtedly be scrutinized by scouts and fans alike.
In conclusion, the upcoming games on September 28 hold significant importance for several rising stars in collegiate football. Whether it's Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter showcasing their defensive prowess, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne demonstrating his speed and agility, Zach Zebrowski continuing his Harlon Hill-worthy performances, or Brandon Davies-Lyons dominating the line of scrimmage, these athletes are primed to make a lasting impression. Coach Miles Taylor's influence on the South Dakota secondary continues to be a focal point for NFL scouts, further highlighting the depth of talent in college football today.