South Dakota's Secondary Impresses NFL Scouts
In recent years, the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary has captured the attention of NFL scouts, thanks to a solid foundation laid by Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Having served as the guiding force since 2020, Taylor has transformed the unit into a formidable lineup. His credentials as a former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes have only added credibility to his coaching techniques.
One of the most promising recruits under Taylor's tutelage is cornerback Mike Reid. Standing tall at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, Reid has become a pivotal player for the Coyotes. His teammate, Dennis Shorter, complements him in the secondary. Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, brings agility and quick reflexes to the field.
This dynamic duo is set to showcase their talent in the upcoming game against Southern Illinois on September 28. Expectations are high as both players have consistently demonstrated their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Tracing back to past successes, Myles Harden, another star nurtured under Taylor, has already made it to the NFL. Harden's impressive performance earned him a spot in the East-West Shrine Bowl, leading to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden's journey provides a template of success for Reid and Shorter, fueling their ambitions.
Spotlight on College Football Talents
While the Coyotes' secondary shines, other standout players across various college football programs have also been making waves. For instance, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca has caught the eyes of many with his dual excellence in football and track. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash, clocking a remarkable 6.72 seconds. Additionally, he holds the school record in the 100-meter dash with an impressive time of 10.69 seconds, further showcasing his elite athleticism. His next football game is against Curry College on September 28.
Meanwhile, Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has earned the coveted Harlon Hill Trophy. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback has displayed exceptional talent, becoming a linchpin for his team. His next challenge lies in the game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, where fans and scouts alike will be keen to see his performance.
On another front, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has demonstrated his prowess as a formidable force on the gridiron. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons stands out with his commanding presence at 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds. His next competitive appearance is set for September 28 against Carleton, promising another opportunity to exhibit his skills.
The Road Ahead
As the calendar inches closer to September 28, the anticipation builds not just for the Coyotes but for multiple college football teams. Miles Taylor's influence on the South Dakota secondary has been profound, paving the way for players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter to shine. Their upcoming game against Southern Illinois presents an ideal platform to solidify their reputations and attract further NFL interest.
In parallel, the exploits of athletes like Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons across different college platforms enrich the fabric of collegiate sports. These talents, each at varying stages of their careers, embody the spirit of competition and growth in American football.
As scouts continue to observe these rising stars, the future of football looks promising. Reflecting on the journey of players like Myles Harden provides inspiration and sets a benchmark of success. On September 28, as these athletes take to the field, they carry not only their teams' hopes but also the dreams of making it to the elite echelons of the sport.