Spotlight on South Dakota's Secondary Shines Brighter

Spotlight on South Dakota's Secondary Shines Brighter

South Dakota Coyotes' secondary has become a focal point for NFL scouts, thanks largely to the tutelage of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Having taken over in 2020, Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, has successfully nurtured a group of standout players, including cornerback Mike Reid and safety Dennis Shorter.

Under Taylor’s guidance, both Reid and Shorter have developed into formidable forces on the field. Mike Reid, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 193 pounds, has shown excellent prowess in coverage and tackling. Meanwhile, Dennis Shorter, despite being 5-foot-8 and weighing 190 pounds, has become known for his agility and hard-hitting style. Both players are slated to face Southern Illinois on September 28, a game expected to present them with another opportunity to showcase their talents.

One of Taylor's most celebrated former players, Myles Harden, participated in the East-West Shrine Bowl and was subsequently selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from South Dakota to the NFL serves as a testament to Taylor’s coaching effectiveness and the quality of players emerging from the Coyotes’ secondary.

Division III Speedster Making Strides

Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca is another player making headlines, though in a different realm of college football. Leonard-Osbourne, who captured the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds, has proven his extraordinary speed on and off the football field. Holding Ithaca's school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds, Leonard-Osbourne has demonstrated that his athleticism is not confined to track and field. His next game will be against Curry College, also on September 28, where fans and scouts eagerly await to see if his speed translates into gridiron success.

Harlon Hill Trophy Winner to Watch

Another player to keep an eye on is Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri, who recently clinched the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy. Zebrowski, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 210 pounds, has shown remarkable skill and leadership on the field. His next test comes in a matchup against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28. Zebrowski’s performance will be crucial for Central Missouri as they aim to capitalize on his award-winning capabilities.

Canada's Standout Lineman Prepares for Key Game

Up north, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University in Canada has been turning heads as well. Participating in the Usports East-West Bowl, Davies-Lyons has demonstrated the physicality and skill that make him a standout lineman. At 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, he is an imposing presence on the line. Davies-Lyons is preparing for his next game against Carleton on September 28, a matchup that will likely highlight his strengths and perhaps even draw more attention from scouts on both sides of the border.

As college football season progresses, the spotlight will undoubtedly continue to shine on these exceptional players. Each has shown unique qualities that not only help their respective teams but also contribute to their personal journeys toward potential professional careers. Fans and scouts alike will watch eagerly to see how these games unfold and what future opportunities lie ahead for these talented athletes.