South Dakota Secondary Shines Under Taylor's Guidance

South Dakota Secondary Shines Under Taylor's Guidance

South Dakota's secondary unit has captured the attention of NFL scouts, thanks to the leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since taking the reins in 2020, Taylor, a former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has been instrumental in developing the promising talent within the South Dakota Coyotes' roster.

Under Taylor's tutelage, players like cornerback Mike Reid and safety Dennis Shorter have thrived. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, has shown remarkable prowess on the field. Similarly, Shorter, at 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds, has proven to be a formidable safety, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination.

Both Reid and Shorter are gearing up for their next game against Southern Illinois on September 28. This upcoming match will provide yet another opportunity for the secondary to demonstrate their capabilities and perhaps further catch the eye of NFL scouts.

Inspiring Stories and Significant Achievements

Taylor's influence extends beyond just the current roster. Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player under Taylor, participated in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden's outstanding performance led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. This journey from collegiate football to the professional league is a testament to Taylor's ability to nurture talent and prepare his players for the next level.

Other notable figures in college football have made significant strides in their respective arenas. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, made headlines by winning the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a stunning time of 6.72 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.69 seconds. His dual prowess in football and track has made him a standout athlete, and his next game against Curry College on September 28 is highly anticipated.

Rising Stars and Recognized Talents

The achievements are not limited to South Dakota and Ithaca. Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has also made waves by winning the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski has shown outstanding performance in his position. His next game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 will be closely watched by fans and scouts alike.

In Canadian football, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has made his mark by participating in the Usports East-West Bowl. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons is an imposing presence on the field. He is set to showcase his skills in an upcoming game against Carleton on September 28, providing another chance for the talented player to shine.

The Collective Influence and Future Prospects

The tales of these players highlight the diverse and impressive talent across various college football teams. Coaches like Miles Taylor play an integral role in shaping these athletes' futures, ensuring they are ready for the challenges of professional sports. The impact of dedicated coaching and relentless player effort echoes across different levels of the game, from college football stadiums to the grand stages of professional leagues.

As we look forward to the upcoming games on September 28, it is evident that the landscape of college football is rich with promising prospects. Whether it's the secondary unit of South Dakota Coyotes, the sprinting prowess of Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, the quarterbacking excellence of Zach Zebrowski, or the defensive prowess of Brandon Davies-Lyons, the future of football looks incredibly bright, thanks to the hard work and dedication of these young athletes and their mentors.