In recent years, the University of South Dakota's secondary has caught the eyes of NFL scouts, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff. Since 2020, the unit has been under the expert guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. A former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Taylor has brought his extensive knowledge and experience to the Coyotes, where he has been instrumental in the development of several key players.
Among those players are Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have become pivotal figures in the Coyotes' defense. Their next challenge comes on September 28, when South Dakota faces Southern Illinois, a matchup that could further highlight their skills and solidify their reputations.
One of the notable successes of Taylor's tenure is Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player whose achievements have propelled him to the professional ranks. Harden's college career culminated in his participation in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, an honor that showcased his talents on a national stage. This exposure led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, a milestone for both Harden and the South Dakota program.
As the Coyotes prepare for their upcoming game, other standout athletes from various programs are also drawing attention. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has not only made a name for himself on the gridiron but also on the track. Leonard-Osbourne claimed the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next athletic endeavor will be on September 28, when Ithaca faces Curry College.
In the realm of awards, Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has earned significant recognition. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's outstanding performance throughout the season earned him the Harlon Hill Trophy, an accolade given to the top player in NCAA Division II football. Zebrowski and his Central Missouri teammates are set to take on Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, in a game that promises to be a showcase of talent and determination.
Another player of note is Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. A participant in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons stands out not just for his skills but also for his physical presence, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds. His next game will be against Carleton, also on September 28, a date that seems to be significant for many of these aspiring athletes.
Under the tutelage of coaches like Miles Taylor, these players have developed not just their athletic abilities but also the discipline and perseverance necessary to succeed at higher levels. The upcoming games on September 28 will be important milestones in their athletic careers, offering them opportunities to demonstrate their skills and dedication.
The recent advancements in these programs underscore the critical role of dedicated coaching and the impact it has on player development. For Coach Taylor and his counterparts, the success of their players is a testament to their hard work and strategic guidance. As NFL scouts continue to keep an eye on emerging talent from college programs, the influence of these coaches cannot be overstated. Their ability to nurture and propel players to professional levels is a key component of collegiate athletics.
Looking at these young athletes' trajectories, it’s clear that their journey is just beginning. With each game, they have the chance to leave an indelible mark on the field, captivating audiences and drawing further attention to their promising futures. As September 28 approaches, fans and scouts alike will be watching closely, eager to witness the next chapter in these remarkable stories.