Scouting Surges for South Dakota's Secondary under Coach Miles Taylor
The South Dakota Coyotes’ secondary has caught the eye of NFL scouts, largely due to the leadership and training under Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since taking the helm in 2020, Taylor, a former standout at Iowa Hawkeyes, has cultivated a defensive unit that's generating significant buzz in professional circles.
Among the talents Taylor has nurtured are cornerback Mike Reid and safety Dennis Shorter. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, Reid has become a formidable force on the field. Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, complements Reid with his agility and prowess. Their next challenge awaits them on September 28, when they face Southern Illinois, a game that promises to further showcase their skills.
Taylor’s impact extends beyond Reid and Shorter. One of his notable proteges, Myles Harden, participated in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, a testament to the quality of talent emerging from South Dakota under Taylor's guidance. Harden’s performance earned him a spot in the NFL, selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the draft. This achievement underscores the high level of development occurring within the Coyotes' secondary.
Leonard-Osbourne's Dual Athletic Prowess
Jalen Leonard-Osbourne is another rising star, showcasing his versatility not only on the football field but also in track athletics. Representing Ithaca, Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. His speed also set a school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne, who embodies the spirit of a dual-sport athlete, will next be in action against Curry College on September 28, where he aims to demonstrate his athletic excellence once more.
Zach Zebrowski: A Force at Central Missouri
Standing tall at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has made his mark by winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the most outstanding player in NCAA Division II football. This accolade highlights Zebrowski's significant contributions to his team and his exceptional talent on the field. Zebrowski's next challenge will be against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, a game where fans and scouts alike will be keen to see if he continues his remarkable form.
Brandon Davies-Lyons: A Towering Presence for York University
Brandon Davies-Lyons, a prominent player from York University, participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, affirming his standing as one of the top talents in Canadian university football. At an imposing 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons brings both size and skill to his position. His next match-up against Carleton on September 28 will be another opportunity for him to display the ability that has made him a name to watch in Usports.
These narratives, spanning different teams and players, underscore the depth of talent in college football. Each athlete, under the guidance of committed coaches like Miles Taylor, continues to push the boundaries of their abilities and set new standards in the sport. As the September 28 games approach, fans and scouts will be keen to observe whether these rising stars can continue to impress and perhaps carve their pathways to professional success.