The Rising Stars of South Dakota's Secondary
South Dakota's secondary has been turning heads lately, and it's not just from the Flash of the jerseys on game day. NFL scouts are scouring the league for emerging talent, and South Dakota has become a focal point, largely due to the influence of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor.
Taylor, a former standout player for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has been at the helm of the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary since 2020. His experience and expertise have transformed the players under his tutelage, molding them into formidable contenders on the field.
Among the stars emerging under Taylor's guidance are Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, has shown an impressive ability to read plays and intercept passes, while Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, exhibits a relentless drive in his defensive play. These two athletes epitomize the hard work and dedication fostered by Taylor's coaching.
Looking ahead, Reid and Shorter are set to face Southern Illinois on September 28, and all eyes will be on their performance to see if they can maintain their high level of play and perhaps catch the attention of even more NFL scouts.
Myles Harden, another testament to Taylor's coaching prowess, has already carved out a path to the NFL. Harden, who once suited up for South Dakota, made his mark by participating in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, a notable event for showcasing up-and-coming talent. His efforts were rewarded when he was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
The prowess of South Dakota's secondary players isn't the only storyline capturing attention. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has demonstrated that elite athleticism isn't confined to a single sport. Leonard-Osbourne claimed the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a blazing time of 6.72 seconds and holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next challenge on the gridiron will be against Curry College on September 28, further showcasing his versatility.
Similarly, the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the best player in Division II football, found its way to Zach Zebrowski of Central Missouri. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski combines size and skill, making him a formidable opponent on the field. Fans eagerly await his next game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, marking another opportunity for the quarterback to dazzle audiences with his talent.
On the Canadian front, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been making strides in Usports football. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons, who stands at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighs 290 pounds, has shown immense potential. His next matchup against Carleton on September 28 promises to be a showdown to watch, as his performance may very well dictate his future in professional football.
As we follow the journeys of these promising athletes, it's clear that the landscape of football is richly diverse and brimming with talent. Whether in South Dakota, New York, or Ontario, these players are a testament to the passion and dedication that drive the sport, and their stories continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.