In recent times, South Dakota's secondary has caught the attention of NFL scouts, thanks largely to the steadfast leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since his arrival in 2020, the former Iowa Hawkeye standout has made significant strides in developing the talent of the South Dakota Coyotes.
One of the standout players under Taylor's guidance is Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback. Alongside Reid, Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, has also flourished. Both players have shown remarkable improvement in their skills and coordination, making the secondary a force to be reckoned with.
As the Coyotes prepare to face Southern Illinois on September 28, all eyes will be on Reid and Shorter, who have both played pivotal roles on defense this season. Their performance in this matchup could further underscore the top-tier coaching they have received from Taylor, who has a knack for nurturing talent, as evidenced by the success of his former players.
One such player is Myles Harden, who showcased his abilities in the East-West Shrine Bowl and was subsequently selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from the college ranks to the professional field is a testament to Taylor's ability to prepare players for the next level.
In another corner of the collegiate football landscape, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca has made a name for himself not just on the gridiron but also on the track. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. Holding the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds, he brings a rare combination of speed and agility to his football game.
Leonard-Osbourne's next challenge will be on September 28, when Ithaca takes on Curry College. As a pivotal player for Ithaca, his dual talents in athletics make him a unique asset to his team, contributing both on the field and during track events.
In the MIAA conference, Central Missouri's Zach Zebrowski has been a force to reckon with. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski recently won the Harlon Hill Trophy, an accolade awarded to the best player in Division II football. His leadership and skill set have been vital to Central Missouri's success, and they will once again rely on his prowess when they face Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
Shifting focus to Canadian football, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has also garnered attention. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, showcasing his talent among other top prospects. With a towering presence and strong performance, his upcoming game against Carleton on September 28 will be one to watch.
These athletes, each from different backgrounds and playing fields, exemplify the diversity and depth of talent within collegiate athletics. Their journeys are full of hard work, dedication, and exceptional coaching—attributes that set them apart and place them on the road to potential professional careers.
As September 28 approaches, collegiate football fans have much to look forward to. From standout defensive performances to record-setting speed on the track, these players continue to make significant impacts on their respective teams. Their next challenges will not only test their individual skills but also highlight the quality of coaching and mentorship they have received, underscoring the critical role coaches like Miles Taylor play in shaping the future of these young athletes.