South Dakota’s Secondary Commands NFL Attention
South Dakota's football program has recently earned recognition, particularly their secondary unit, which has caught the keen eyes of NFL scouts. At the heart of this success is Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, who has been at the helm since 2020. Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, has been instrumental in developing the talent within the secondary, nurturing players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter.
Taylor's expertise and guidance have been pivotal for Reid and Shorter. Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, has shown significant promise under Taylor's coaching. Complementing Reid's prowess is Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, who has also thrived in the system Taylor has established. The duo’s next challenge will be on September 28, when South Dakota faces Southern Illinois.
Myles Harden: From South Dakota to the NFL
The effectiveness of Taylor's coaching is further evidenced by the success of Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player. Harden's skills were showcased at the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, leading to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden's journey underscores the potential for success South Dakota's secondary players possess when guided by a coach of Taylor's caliber.
Athletic Prowess Beyond the Gridiron: Jalen Leonard-Osbourne
Not every standout athlete hails from the football field. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has made a name for himself in track and field as well. Leonard-Osbourne captured the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash, clocking in at 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne's dual-sport talent will be on display on September 28 when Ithaca faces Curry College.
Another Star on the Rise: Zach Zebrowski
From Central Missouri, quarterback Zach Zebrowski has also garnered his share of accolades, winning the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing tall at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski represents a significant asset for his team. His next opportunity to showcase his talent comes on September 28, when Central Missouri clashes with Nebraska-Kearney.
Brandon Davies-Lyons: A Force on the Line
In the realm of Canadian university football, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has shown formidable promise. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound lineman participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, demonstrating his potential to make substantial impacts on the field. Davies-Lyons is set to play against Carleton on September 28, and his performance will undoubtedly be watched closely by those on both sides of the border.
As the collegiate football season progresses, the eyes of scouts, coaches, and fans alike will remain fixed on these standout athletes. From the exemplary defensive unit at South Dakota to multi-sport competitors and international prospects, the talent in collegiate football continues to offer a glimpse into the future of the sport.