In the realm of collegiate football, certain programs and players find ways to stand out, catching the eyes of NFL scouts and sports enthusiasts alike. One particular area of interest has been South Dakota's secondary, which has received significant attention under the stewardship of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor since 2020.
The Man Behind the Secondary
Miles Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, has proven to be a formidable developer of talent. Since taking the reins as Defensive Backs Coach, Taylor has nurtured the potential of players such as Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Taylor’s influence has cultivated a defensive unit that is both tenacious and disciplined, making South Dakota a force to be reckoned with in collegiate football.
Mike Reid, at 6-foot-1 and 193 pounds, embodies the ideal cornerback with his combination of height, speed, and agility. Complementing Reid in the secondary is Dennis Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety known for his hard-hitting style and quick reflexes. The tandem’s next challenge lies ahead against Southern Illinois on September 28, a matchup that promises to test their mettle and showcase their skills on a larger stage.
From College Gridirons to the Pros
The road from college football to the professional leagues is fraught with challenges, but some players make the journey with remarkable success. One such success story is Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player who not only participated in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl but also caught the attention of the Cleveland Browns. Harden’s journey culminated in his selection in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, a testament to the caliber of players emerging from South Dakota's program.
Harden’s achievement serves as an inspiration for current players like Reid and Shorter, who are looking to follow in his footsteps. The NFL scouts' growing interest in South Dakota's secondary underlines the program's ability to produce athletes capable of competing at the highest level.
Rising Stars Across the Nation
South Dakota isn't the only program making waves. Other colleges are also nurturing exceptional talent destined for greatness. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne of Ithaca is a prime example. Leonard-Osbourne’s prowess isn't limited to the football field; he clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds and holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next opportunity to shine on the gridiron comes on September 28 against Curry College.
In Central Missouri, quarterback Zach Zebrowski has emerged as a standout player. Zebrowski, a Harlon Hill Trophy recipient, stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 210 pounds. His presence and leadership on the field are invaluable, and his next game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 will undoubtedly be one to watch.
Exceptional Talent in Canada
The talent pool extends beyond the borders of the United States, with Canada also producing formidable football prospects. Among these is Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons showcased his abilities in the Usports East-West Bowl. His next game against Carleton on September 28 will further test his skills and provide an opportunity for him to elevate his game.
As college football progresses towards the latter half of the season, the performances of these players will be closely scrutinized, not just by fans, but by professional scouts looking for the next big star. The dedication and hard work of coaches like Miles Taylor, combined with the raw talent and determination of players like Mike Reid, Dennis Shorter, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, Zach Zebrowski, and Brandon Davies-Lyons, ensure that the future of football is in good hands.