The South Dakota Coyotes' secondary has become a focal point for NFL scouts, thanks to the impactful guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Since taking over the reins in 2020, Taylor, a former standout from Iowa Hawkeye, has been making waves in the defensive landscape of college football.
A Defensive Unit on the Rise
Under Taylor's mentorship, players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter have been flourishing. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have proven their capabilities on the field. Their next challenge awaits them in a pivotal game against Southern Illinois on September 28. Both players have demonstrated the discipline and skill that can often be traced back to their coach's formidable expertise and his own experiences as a collegiate athlete.
The Impact of Miles Taylor
Taylor's influence is not limited to his current roster. Myles Harden, a former player for South Dakota who played under Taylor, recently made headlines by participating in the East-West Shrine Bowl and being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from college football to the professional league stands as a testament to Taylor's coaching prowess.
Champions Beyond Football
Not all impressive athletic feats are confined to the football field. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, although a football player for Ithaca, made a name for himself in track and field. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a remarkable time of 6.72 seconds. Additionally, he holds the school record for the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His dual talent in both sports is a rarity and speaks volumes about his athletic versatility. Leonard-Osbourne's next game sees him facing Curry College on September 28.
Central Missouri’s Harlon Hill Trophy Winner
Central Missouri's Zach Zebrowski is another athlete to watch. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski’s performance on the field earned him the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. His next game is scheduled against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28, and expectations are high for him to continue showcasing his award-winning form.
A Shining Star in Canadian Football
In Canadian football, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been turning heads. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons has established himself as a formidable presence on the field. With a towering frame of 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons is a force to be reckoned with. His upcoming game against Carleton on September 28 is sure to be a spectacle, given his impactful performances thus far.
The accomplishments of these athletes underscore the dedication, hard work, and exceptional coaching that define their careers. Each player, in their respective right, has made significant strides, making the upcoming games on September 28 a highly anticipated date for football enthusiasts. From the collegiate fields of South Dakota to the professional arenas of the NFL, these players illustrate the ongoing narrative of excellence in sports.