South Dakota’s Secondary Shines Under Coach Miles Taylor
In the world of college football, it is often the unsung heroes who play a pivotal role in the team's success, and the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary is no exception. Since 2020, the group has been under the tutelage of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, a former standout at Iowa Hawkeye. His impact on the field has drawn the attention of NFL scouts, who are increasingly taking note of the talent thriving under his guidance.
The Emergence of Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter
Among the players who have flourished under Taylor's supervision 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 integral components of the Coyotes' defensive lineup. Their skills and performances serve as testaments to Taylor's coaching acumen and his ability to nurture talent and develop well-rounded players.
The next challenge for Reid and Shorter is a matchup against Southern Illinois on September 28. This game will provide another opportunity for the duo to showcase their abilities and, perhaps, attract further interest from the professional ranks.
A Legacy in the Making
Taylor's influence extends beyond current players Reid and Shorter. Myles Harden, a former player under Taylor's guidance, recently participated in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden's progression and eventual selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft underline the effectiveness and impact of Taylor's coaching style.
Excellence Across the Board: Leonard-Osbourne’s Dual Sporting Feats
While South Dakota's secondary garners well-deserved attention, other athletes across the nation are also making waves. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca has achieved remarkable success, not just on the football field but also on the track. In 2022, Leonard-Osbourne won the NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. Moreover, he holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds.
Leonard-Osbourne's athletic prowess will next be on display on September 28 in a football game against Curry College, highlighting his ability to balance dual sporting commitments while excelling in both domains.
Zach Zebrowski’s Harlon Hill Trophy Triumph
Central Missouri quarterback Zach Zebrowski has cemented his status as a top player with his recent capture of the Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's physical attributes complement his on-field talent, making him a formidable player at the collegiate level.
Players and coaches alike will be keeping a keen eye on his performance as he leads Central Missouri in their next contest against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
Brandon Davies-Lyons: A Rising Star North of the Border
North of the border, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been making a name for himself. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound powerhouse participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, signaling his readiness to take the next step in his football career. His physical presence and on-field capabilities make Davies-Lyons a player to watch in his upcoming game against Carleton on September 28.
A Night to Remember
As September 28 approaches, the excitement builds across various football fields. From South Dakota to Ithaca, Central Missouri, and York University, standout athletes are gearing up to demonstrate their skills and hard work. Under the guidance of adept coaches like Miles Taylor, these players continue to strive for excellence, adding intriguing narratives to the ever-evolving world of college football.