South Dakota's Secondary Under NFL Spotlight
The South Dakota Coyotes' secondary unit has caught the eye of NFL scouts, showcasing a blend of talent nurtured under the watchful eye of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since taking the helm in 2020, Taylor, a former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has cultivated a robust and resilient secondary that has become a key component of the team's defense.
Taylor has played a significant role in developing players such as Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter, both of whom have demonstrated considerable potential on the field. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have become cornerstones of the Coyotes' defensive unit. Their next challenge comes on September 28 against Southern Illinois, a game that will surely draw the scrutiny of both fans and scouts alike.
One of Taylor's recent success stories is Myles Harden, a former Coyote who showcased his skills at the East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden's impressive performance led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, underscoring the quality of talent emerging from South Dakota's program.
Beyond the Coyotes
While South Dakota's secondary has been making headlines, other standout players across different leagues are also capturing attention. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has proven to be a versatile athlete. Leonard-Osbourne won the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a remarkable time of 6.72 seconds, and he also holds the school record for the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next football game is against Curry College on September 28, a date that will mark another opportunity for this dynamic athlete to shine.
Celebrating Success: Zach Zebrowski and Brandon Davies-Lyons
Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has distinguished himself as a player of exceptional skill, earning the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski has demonstrated both physical prowess and strategic acumen on the field. His next game is set against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, where he will look to lead his team to victory once more.
Meanwhile, in Canada, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been making his mark. His participation in the Usports East-West Bowl showcased his abilities on a larger stage. Standing a towering 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons is a formidable presence on the field. He is slated to play against Carleton on September 28, a game that promises to be a true test of his skills.
A Look Ahead
September 28 is shaping up to be a significant day in college and university football, with several key players taking the field. Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter of South Dakota will face Southern Illinois, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca will compete against Curry College, Zach Zebrowski of Central Missouri will go up against Nebraska-Kearney, and Brandon Davies-Lyons of York University will challenge Carleton. Each of these athletes brings a unique set of skills and a track record of excellence that promises to make these matchups truly compelling.
As NFL scouts continue to monitor emerging talent, the performances on September 28 could be pivotal in shaping the future careers of these standout players. From South Dakota's secondary to the broader landscape of college football, the dedication, talent, and hard work of these athletes continue to drive the sport forward, inspiring the next generation of football stars.