South Dakota's Secondary Attracts NFL Attention
South Dakota's secondary has recently caught the eye of NFL scouts, largely due to the guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor. Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, took the reins of the secondary in 2020 and has since built a formidable unit that has scouts buzzing.
Two standout players under Taylor's tutelage are Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have thrived in Taylor's system. Their next test comes on September 28 against Southern Illinois, a matchup that will surely be scrutinized by NFL personnel.
A Star in the Making
Another notable player from South Dakota who has made waves is Myles Harden. Harden's performance earned him a spot in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, a key showcase for NFL hopefuls. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as the Cleveland Browns selected him in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
Elsewhere on the Gridiron
Beyond South Dakota, there are other collegiate athletes making headlines. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has demonstrated remarkable athletic versatility. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.72 seconds. He also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash, clocking an impressive 10.69 seconds. His next football game is set against Curry College on September 28, a date that promises to add another chapter to his burgeoning sports career.
Meanwhile, Zach Zebrowski of Central Missouri has also been in the spotlight. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski's standout performances earned him the Harlon Hill Trophy, an accolade awarded to the top player in Division II football. Central Missouri fans will be keenly watching as Zebrowski takes on Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
In the Canadian collegiate scene, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has showcased his talents, participating in the Usports East-West Bowl. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound lineman has been a pillar for his team. His next challenge will be against Carleton on September 28, where his performance will be crucial for York's success.
Upcoming Contests
September 28 marks a significant date on the collegiate football calendar. Key matchups are set to take place, featuring players with aspirations for professional careers. For the South Dakota Coyotes, it’s another opportunity for Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter to solidify their status as NFL prospects under the guidance of Coach Miles Taylor. Their game against Southern Illinois will be closely monitored by scouts evaluating their readiness for the next level.
Jalen Leonard-Osbourne will also step onto the field for Ithaca against Curry College, looking to continue his dual-sport success. Zach Zebrowski, fresh off his Harlon Hill Trophy win, faces Nebraska-Kearney in a game that could further elevate his profile. Lastly, Brandon Davies-Lyons will lead York University against Carleton, a game that will test his mettle and potentially open more doors to a professional future.
These athletes are not only the backbone of their respective teams but also the harbingers of future professional football talent. Their performances on September 28 will provide not just thrilling collegiate action but also potential glimpses into the future of the NFL and beyond.