South Dakota's Rising Stars Catching NFL Eyes
The South Dakota Coyotes’ secondary has become a focal point for NFL scouts, thanks to the formidable leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since taking the helm in 2020, Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, has been instrumental in developing key players who are now drawing significant pro-level interest.
A Coach's Influence
Miles Taylor's coaching prowess is evident through the performances of his prodigies, Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, has emerged as a cornerback worth watching. Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, has also made substantial strides under Taylor's mentorship. Together, they form a defensive duo that exemplifies Taylor’s coaching philosophy – blending physical fitness with sharp tactical awareness.
Their next challenge will be a crucial game against Southern Illinois on September 28, a match that presents another opportunity for Reid and Shorter to showcase their skills on a grander stage.
Alumni Success Stories
South Dakota’s secondary isn’t new to producing NFL-caliber talent. Myles Harden, a former player for the Coyotes, made a significant impact when he participated in the East-West Shrine Bowl and subsequently got selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden's journey from collegiate play to professional football echoes the potential paths that players like Reid and Shorter could follow under Taylor’s guidance.
A Nation of Talent
While South Dakota has been a notable breeding ground for football talent, it’s worth mentioning other standout players and their achievements across the nation. For instance, Zach Zebrowski of Central Missouri, who recently won the Harlon Hill Trophy, stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 210 pounds. Zebrowski’s next game is slated against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, and he'll undoubtedly draw attention as the game approaches.
Speedsters to Watch
Speed and agility are crucial in football, and few embody these traits better than Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca. Leonard-Osbourne isn’t just a football player; he holds the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. Additionally, he set the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. As Ithaca prepares to face Curry College on September 28, Leonard-Osbourne's dual sports prowess will be a significant asset.
Rising Powerhouses
Another name to keep in mind is Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. Standing a towering 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons brings both size and skill to the field. Having participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, his next game against Carleton on September 28 will be a crucial test of his capabilities. Scouts and fans alike will be eager to see how his presence influences the game’s outcome.
In summary, as the next slate of games unfolds on September 28, all eyes will be on these rising stars. With prominent figures like Miles Taylor sculpting future NFL talents, the excitement and anticipation around collegiate football continue to surge. The performance of these players will not only influence their respective teams but also shape the professional journeys that lie ahead. Football enthusiasts and scouts will undoubtedly be paying close attention to these dynamic athletes as they strive to leave their mark on the sport.