South Dakota's Secondary Catching NFL Scouts' Attention
In the world of college football, the South Dakota Coyotes have been making waves, particularly within their secondary unit. Under the leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor since 2020, the secondary has attracted significant interest from NFL scouts.
A former Iowa Hawkeye standout, Taylor has successfully nurtured talents such as Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Both players have showcased impressive skills that are hard to ignore. Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, combines agility with a keen sense for the game. Meanwhile, Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, remains a steadfast pillar in the secondary, demonstrating resilience and tactical intelligence on the field.
The formidable duo of Reid and Shorter is set to take on Southern Illinois on September 28, an occasion that is likely to draw even more scrutiny from professional scouts. Their performances in this game could significantly influence their future prospects in the NFL.
A Legacy of Excellence
Miles Taylor's coaching tenure has not only been marked by the current talent pool but also by the successes of former players. Myles Harden, for instance, participated in the East-West Shrine Bowl, showcasing his skills on a prominent stage. Harden’s abilities were eventually recognized by the Cleveland Browns, who selected him in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Such progression is a testament to Taylor's ability to develop and hone raw talent into professional-level proficiency.
Impressive Speed and Agility
While South Dakota's secondary grabs the limelight, elsewhere in college football, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca has been captivating audiences with his sheer speed. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash, clocking an impressive 6.72 seconds. His prowess isn't limited to the short sprints; he also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne's next appearance on the football field will be against Curry College on September 28, where his speed is expected to be a game-changer.
Another Rising Star
Central Missouri's Zach Zebrowski has also been turning heads. Winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, Zebrowski, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback, has proven his mettle throughout the season. His next challenge comes against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28. Zebrowski's performance in this game will further solidify his reputation as one of the top prospects in college football.
Talent Across the Borders
Beyond the United States, Canadian talent Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been making his mark. Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, an event that highlights the best talent in Canadian university football. His next game against Carleton on September 28 will be an opportunity to further showcase his abilities to scouts and football enthusiasts alike.
Looking Ahead
As the college football season progresses, these athletes, under the guidance of experienced coaches like Miles Taylor, continue to push the boundaries. Their upcoming games are not just a test of their skills but also a preview of what the future holds for professional football. The NFL scouts will undoubtedly keep a close watch, as the next generation of football talent takes the field.