South Dakota Secondary Captures NFL Scouts' Eyes as Coaching Talent Shines
South Dakota’s Defensive Backfield Draws Notice
The South Dakota Coyotes’ secondary has increasingly become a focal point for NFL scouts, particularly under the guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Leading this squad since 2020, Taylor’s tenure has seen a metamorphosis in the skill and preparedness of his players, bringing much-deserved attention to the program.
A Coach with a Stellar Pedigree
Coach Miles Taylor, a former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has transferred his on-field prowess to the coaching realm, where his technical knowledge and strategic insights have been invaluable. His expertise has cultivated promising talents such as Mike Reid, a formidable 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety. These players have been the bedrock of South Dakota's defensive strategies, embodying the competitive spirit and tactical discipline that Coach Taylor fosters.
Spotlight on Reid and Shorter
Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter are set to showcase their refined skills against Southern Illinois on September 28. This game follows a string of performances that have already impressed NFL scouts. Reid’s height and agility make him a central figure in covering wide receivers, while Shorter’s compact build and quick reflexes render him a defensive linchpin as a safety. Both players epitomize the rigorous training and mentorship they’ve received under Taylor’s guidance.
A Legacy of NFL Talent
The Coyotes’ secondary isn’t short on success stories. Myles Harden, a former player under Taylor, earned a spot in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl and was later selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden's ascension to the professional ranks serves as a powerful testament to Taylor’s ability to develop NFL-ready talent.
Leonard-Osbourne: A Dual-Threat Athlete
Beyond the football field in Ithaca, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne shines as an exceptional athlete, boasting a remarkable versatility. A football player for Ithaca, Leonard-Osbourne clinched 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, clocking in at 10.69 seconds.
Balancing his dual commitments, Leonard-Osbourne’s next appearance on the football field will be on September 28 against Curry College. His athletic prowess across sports establishes him as a unique asset to his team, merging speed with skill to outmaneuver opponents.
Central Missouri’s Star Player: Zach Zebrowski
Meanwhile, Central Missouri celebrates its own star athlete, Zach Zebrowski, the winner of the Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski’s capabilities on the field are a crucial component of his team’s dynamics. Zebrowski will be an essential player to watch in the upcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, where his performance is expected to be a significant factor in the game’s outcome.
Rising Talent at York University: Brandon Davies-Lyons
York University’s Brandon Davies-Lyons also makes waves in collegiate football. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons has demonstrated his prowess on the field as a robust 6-foot-6, 290-pound player. With a game against Carleton on September 28, he stands as a towering presence whose performance will be instrumental to York’s defensive and offensive strategies.
Anticipated Matchups
The confluence of talent converging on the field on September 28 across various universities signifies an exciting day for football enthusiasts. Each matchup not only offers a display of top-tier athleticism but also highlights the meticulous coaching and hard work put forth by players and their mentors. From South Dakota to Central Missouri, and from Ithaca to York University, the upcoming games promise thrilling action and perhaps, glimpses of the next cohort of NFL athletes.
With the keen eye of scouts already set on the likes of Reid, Shorter, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons, the stakes are undeniably high. As these players bring their best to the field, they further cement the reputation of their respective programs and contribute to the rich, dynamic tapestry of college football.