Spotlight on South Dakota's Secondary
The South Dakota Coyotes' secondary is increasingly turning heads in the football world. Leading this talented group since 2020 is Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, a notable former Iowa Hawkeye standout. Taylor has skillfully nurtured a cadre of players who are attracting attention from NFL scouts, making the Coyotes’ backfield one of the most talked-about areas in collegiate football.
Among the remarkable talents honed by Taylor are Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have become linchpins of the Coyotes' defense. Both players are slated to take on Southern Illinois in their next game on September 28, a matchup that promises to put their skills on full display.
Myles Harden: From Coyote to the NFL
Another testament to Taylor’s coaching prowess is Myles Harden. Harden previously shined for South Dakota and was eventually selected to participate in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl. His exceptional performance there caught the eyes of NFL scouts, culminating in his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from a promising talent in South Dakota to an NFL draftee encapsulates the potential that Taylor’s mentorship can unlock.
Champions and Record-Setters
While the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary is making headlines, other athletes are also distinguishing themselves in varied aspects of collegiate sports.
Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, a football player for Ithaca, has etched his name into the record books. Winning the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a blistering time of 6.72 seconds, Leonard-Osbourne also holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next football game, set against Curry College on September 28, will undoubtedly draw attention as fans watch this dual-sport athlete continue to impress.
Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri made waves by winning the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the top player in NCAA Division II football. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski exemplifies athleticism and skill. His forthcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 is highly anticipated, with expectations running high for another standout performance.
Meanwhile, the Usports East-West Bowl showcased another giant, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University. At a towering 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons represents both size and strength on the field. His next clash, scheduled against Carleton on September 28, is set to be a riveting contest, with Davies-Lyons poised to be a pivotal figure.
Conclusion
From the rising defensive talent in the South Dakota Coyotes' secondary to the champions and record-setters in collegiate sports, these athletes embody dedication, skill, and the drive to succeed. As upcoming games approach, fans and scouts alike will be keenly observing, eager to witness the next standout performances and remarkable achievements in the world of college athletics.