South Dakota's Secondary Captures NFL Attention
The buzz surrounding South Dakota's secondary has intensified, drawing the interest of NFL scouts keen to unearth the next big talent. A key architect behind this defensive prowess is Miles Taylor, who has been at the helm as the Defensive Backs Coach for the South Dakota Coyotes since 2020. Taylor, a former standout at Iowa, has leveraged his experience and expertise to elevate the play of his defensive unit.
The Impact of Miles Taylor
Under Taylor's guidance, players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter have flourished. Reid, a 6-foot-1-inch, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8-inch, 190-pound safety, have become central figures in South Dakota's defense. Taylor has not only honed their technical skills but also instilled a sense of discipline and strategic acumen in his players.
“Taylor’s coaching style transcends the typical,” commented a scout. “He focuses on the nuances of the game, which has clearly paid off in the performance level of players like Reid and Shorter.”
Their next challenge comes on September 28, when the Coyotes face Southern Illinois. This game will be a crucial test for both Reid and Shorter, as it offers another opportunity to impress scouts and exhibit their prowess on the field.
Success Stories: From College to NFL
One of Taylor’s most notable success stories is Myles Harden. Harden, a former player for South Dakota, earned recognition through his participation in the East-West Shrine Bowl, which serves as a prelude to potential NFL careers. His outstanding performance caught the eye of the Cleveland Browns, who selected him in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
“The development Harden underwent under Taylor is a testament to effective coaching and sheer determination,” remarked another NFL scout. “He’s a prime example of how South Dakota is becoming a breeding ground for NFL talent.”
Spotlight on Jalen Leonard-Osbourne
Not confined to one successful program, talent permeates across various schools. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a player for Ithaca, made waves in track and field before bringing his speed to the gridiron. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a remarkable time of 6.72 seconds and holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His athletic prowess will next be on display against Curry College on September 28.
Rising Stars Across the Nation
Another rising star is Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri, who won the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski has demonstrated remarkable athleticism and leadership on the field. His upcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 will see if he can continue his impressive form.
Canadian Talent: Brandon Davies-Lyons
Not to be overlooked is Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University, who showcased his abilities in the Usports East-West Bowl. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons is a formidable presence on the field. His next contest against Carleton on September 28 will be another platform to illustrate why he’s considered one of the top prospects in Canadian university football.
In Conclusion
The landscape of college football is replete with emerging talent, ready to make their mark at the next level. Miles Taylor’s tenure at South Dakota has particularly spotlighted how effective coaching can shape NFL prospects. As football fans eagerly await the September 28 games, all eyes will be on the likes of Reid, Shorter, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons. Each of these athletes represents the next wave of football talent, promising thrilling performances and exciting futures in the sport.