South Dakota's Secondary Shines Under Coach Miles Taylor
Since 2020, South Dakota Coyotes' secondary has gained the attention of NFL scouts, thanks to the expert leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. A former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Taylor's influence on the team has been unmistakable.
Under Taylor's mentorship, players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter have thrived. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, represent the heart of the Coyotes' defensive backfield. Their next challenge comes on September 28, when they will face Southern Illinois, providing them another opportunity to showcase their skills to scouts and fans alike.
A significant aspect of Taylor's coaching prowess is his ability to nurture talent. His guidance has also steered Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player, toward success. Harden's performance earned him a spot in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, eventually leading to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
Spotlight on Emerging Talent
Beyond the Coyotes, other players in various football programs are making notable strides. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca presents a dual threat with his football skills and speed on the track. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds Ithaca's school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne's athletic prowess will next be seen in action against Curry College on September 28.
The Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the top player in NCAA Division II football, was claimed by Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's combination of size, athleticism, and skill has distinguished him on the field. His performance will be under scrutiny in his upcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
In Canadian football, Brandon Davies-Lyons of York University displays impressive physical attributes. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons is a formidable presence on the field. His participation in the Usports East-West Bowl highlights his potential. Fans and scouts alike will be keenly watching his next game against Carleton on September 28.
Tailored Coaching and Impressive Performances
Miles Taylor's ability to develop NFL-caliber talent is evident, but he is not alone in molding impressive athletes. Across various programs, coaches are honing players who are making a significant impact. Taylor's efforts with the South Dakota Coyotes underscore the importance of quality coaching in nurturing and unveiling football talent. His tutelage of players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter exemplifies how targeted coaching can yield remarkable results.
This season, the progress of these players will be one to watch. As they prepare for their respective games on September 28, their performances will not only influence their team's standing but also their prospects in professional football. For Reid, Shorter, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons, the upcoming matches are stepping stones in their burgeoning careers.
With scouts' increasing attention on South Dakota's secondary and the broad spectrum of talent emerging from various football programs, one thing is certain: the future of football is bright, with a new generation of athletes ready to make their mark on the sport.