South Dakota's Secondary Shines Under Miles Taylor's Guidance
In the realm of college football, few units have garnered as much recent attention from NFL scouts as the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary. Since 2020, this pivotal part of the team has been under the meticulous guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, a former standout for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Taylor's influence and expertise have shaped the futures of several players, most notably Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter.
Miles Taylor's Impact
Miles Taylor's journey from being an acclaimed player to a revered coach is noteworthy. His tenure in South Dakota has been marked by a structured and disciplined approach that reflects his playing days. Taylor's hands-on mentoring has brought out the best in his players, turning them into polished performers who catch the discerning eyes of NFL scouts. His experience on the field has translated seamlessly into his coaching career, allowing him to nurture talent in a way that few can.
Key Players: Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter
Among the talents honed under Taylor's tutelage are Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, has shown exceptional promise. His physicality and game intelligence make him a formidable presence on the field. Paired with the shifty and agile Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, the duo has become a cornerstone of the South Dakota secondary. Both players are set to showcase their skills in the upcoming game against Southern Illinois on September 28.
Their journey under Coach Taylor's leadership speaks volumes of his ability to identify and develop potential. Scouts have taken notice, and it's only a matter of time before these players make waves in professional football.
NFL Prospects
South Dakota's prowess in producing NFL-caliber talent is exemplified by Myles Harden, a former player who exhibited his skills at the East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden's performance earned him a place in the NFL, with the Cleveland Browns selecting him in the seventh round of the draft. This achievement underscores the high-caliber training and preparation provided by the South Dakota coaching staff, particularly Miles Taylor.
Other Rising Stars
While the South Dakota Coyotes prepare for their next challenge, other notable players across the collegiate football landscape are also making significant strides. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca has demonstrated his athletic prowess beyond the football field. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds and holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next game against Curry College on September 28 will be a chance to see his multi-sport excellence in action.
Central Missouri's Zach Zebrowski, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, continues to stand out. Zebrowski's exceptional skills earned him the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the best player in Division II football. He too will be showcasing his talents on September 28 against Nebraska-Kearney, a game that promises to draw significant attention.
Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University exemplifies the cross-border talent making a name in the football world. At 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, an event that showcases some of the best Canadian collegiate football players. His next test comes against Carleton on September 28, further cementing his role as a key player to watch.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the contributions of these players and coaches continue to be pivotal in shaping the outcomes of their respective teams. Miles Taylor’s influence on the South Dakota secondary and the pathways he has opened for players like Mike Reid, Dennis Shorter, and Myles Harden exemplify the impact a dedicated coach can have. The upcoming matches on September 28 for these athletes offer more than just a chance to win—they provide a stage to demonstrate their relentless drive and honed skills, setting the scene for what promises to be an eventful season both on the collegiate level and beyond.