South Dakota's Secondary Sparks NFL Interest
In recent years, South Dakota's secondary has caught the discerning eyes of NFL scouts, primarily due to the steadfast leadership of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Taylor, who took the reins in 2020, has been instrumental in nurturing talent and elevating the performance of his players.
A former standout at Iowa, Taylor has seamlessly transitioned from a player to a mentor, shaping the futures of promising athletes like cornerback Mike Reid and safety Dennis Shorter. Reid, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, and Shorter, a compact 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds, have been pivotal in the secondary’s success. The duo is set to showcase their skills again when they face Southern Illinois on September 28.
Harden's Path to the Pros
One of Taylor’s notable protégés, Myles Harden, has already made his mark in professional football. After participating in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, Harden was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. His journey from South Dakota to the NFL serves as a testament to the quality of coaching and the level of talent being cultivated within the program.
Leonard-Osbourne: Dual-Threat Athlete
While not directly related to South Dakota, another athlete making waves is Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca. Known for his exceptional speed, Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds Ithaca’s record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne’s athletic prowess isn’t confined to the track, as he brings his speed and agility to the football field. His next appearance will be against Curry College on September 28.
Recognizing Excellence: Zebrowski and Davies-Lyons
Central Missouri’s Zach Zebrowski has also had a standout season, culminating in winning the Harlon Hill Trophy. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound athlete has demonstrated remarkable skill and consistency. Zebrowski is set to continue his stellar performance against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
Meanwhile, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has been a formidable presence, participating in the Usports East-West Bowl. With his imposing frame of 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons has become a stalwart on the field. His next challenge will be against Carleton on September 28.
Conclusion
These athletes, guided by experienced coaches like Miles Taylor, represent a promising future for football. Their dedication to their craft and outstanding performances continue to attract attention at the highest levels, proving that excellence in coaching and player development can pave the way to professional success.