The Rise of South Dakota's Secondary Under Miles Taylor
South Dakota's secondary has become a focal point for NFL scouts, largely due to the guidance and expertise of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since his arrival in 2020, Taylor, a former standout at Iowa Hawkeye, has transformed the defensive unit into a powerhouse.
One of Taylor's notable accomplishments has been the development of players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, has emerged as a formidable cornerback, while Shorter, at 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds, has proven to be a reliable safety. Both are crucial components of the Coyotes' defense and are eager for their upcoming game against Southern Illinois on September 28.
An inspiring figure in their ranks is Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player who brought his talents to the national stage by participating in the East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden's dedication and skill did not go unnoticed, leading to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. His journey from South Dakota to the NFL serves as a testament to Taylor's coaching prowess and the potential within the Coyotes' secondary.
But the spotlight on defensive talent extends far beyond South Dakota. Across the leagues, athletes like Jalen Leonard-Osbourne demonstrate the versatile athleticism prevalent in today's game. Leonard-Osbourne, who plays for Ithaca, made headlines by winning the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.72 seconds. Additionally, he holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His athletic contribution will be pivotal in Ithaca's forthcoming game against Curry College on September 28.
Meanwhile, the formidable presence of Central Missouri's Zach Zebrowski cannot be overlooked. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback clinched the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy, solidifying his status as an elite player. Zebrowski's next challenge awaits him on September 28, when Central Missouri faces off against Nebraska-Kearney.
Another notable figure making waves is Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. As a participant in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons stands tall at 6-foot-6 and tips the scales at 290 pounds. His presence on the field is as imposing as his stature, and all eyes will be on him in his upcoming game against Carleton on September 28.
The collective success of these athletes underscores the significance of strong coaching and dedicated training. Whether it's the secondary players nurtured by Miles Taylor at South Dakota or the explosive speed of Jalen Leonard-Osbourne at Ithaca, these athletes represent the pinnacle of collegiate football talent. Their upcoming games promise excitement and the opportunity to witness future professional talents in action.