South Dakota Secondary Shines Under Miles Taylor's Tutelage
South Dakota's secondary has become a focal point for NFL scouts, and the reasons are evident. Since taking over as the Defensive Backs Coach in 2020, Miles Taylor has transformed the South Dakota Coyotes' defensive backfield into a formidable unit. A former standout at Iowa, Taylor's influence is clear in the development of his players, including Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter.
Under Taylor's guidance, Reid and Shorter have emerged as key players. Reid, a 6-foot-1 cornerback weighing 193 pounds, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8 safety at 190 pounds, have both shown significant growth. The next test for these two rising stars is against Southern Illinois on September 28, a matchup that will undoubtedly draw the attention of scouts and fans alike.
One of Taylor’s former protégés, Myles Harden, has already taken the leap to the NFL. Harden showcased his skills at the East-West Shrine Bowl before being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. His journey serves as an inspiration for Reid, Shorter, and their teammates, proving that Taylor’s system can produce NFL-caliber talent.
Meanwhile, on a different stage, another player is making waves in the world of collegiate athletics. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has demonstrated remarkable versatility. Leonard-Osbourne's speed is his calling card; he clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.72 seconds and holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next game is also on September 28, when Ithaca faces Curry College.
Zach Zebrowski has also been turning heads. The Central Missouri standout recently won the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy, recognizing him as the top player in Division II football. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski is set to showcase his talents in the next game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes him a player to watch closely.
In Canada, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University is making his mark. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons stands tall at 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds. His physical presence and on-field performance have made him a key figure for York University, with his next showing scheduled against Carleton on September 28.
These players exemplify the diverse and dynamic talent emerging from collegiate football. From the defensive prowess of South Dakota’s backfield under the mentorship of Miles Taylor to the athletic achievements of Leonard-Osbourne and Zebrowski's excellence, it is clear that the future is bright for these young athletes. Each brings their own unique skills and storylines to the field, marking their paths to potential professional careers.
The September 28 games will be a crucial date for all these players. Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter will strive to uphold the defensive strength of South Dakota's secondary against Southern Illinois. Simultaneously, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, Zach Zebrowski, and Brandon Davies-Lyons will each aim to leave their mark in their respective matchups.
As scouts, coaches, and fans keep a keen eye on these athletes, one thing is certain: their journeys are just beginning. Whether it's refining defensive strategies, breaking sprinting records, or winning coveted awards, these players are poised to shape the future of football. The foundation laid by mentors like Miles Taylor and the individual prowess of these athletes signal a promising horizon for collegiate and professional football alike.