South Dakota's Stellar Secondary: A Talent Hub for NFL Scouts
In the world of college football, the South Dakota Coyotes have garnered attention, particularly for their impressive secondary. NFL scouts frequently visit Vermillion, South Dakota, drawn by the wealth of talent in this unit, expertly led by Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor since 2020.
Taylor, a former Iowa Hawkeye standout, has successfully nurtured a group of players who are making names for themselves and raising the profile of the Coyotes' defense. Under his guidance, players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter have become key figures in the secondary.
Key Players: Reid and Shorter
Mike Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, has shown exceptional skills and physicality on the field. His size and athleticism make him a formidable opponent, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by scouts. Another standout, safety Dennis Shorter, brings a different set of skills to the table. Standing at 5-foot-8 and weighing 190 pounds, Shorter’s agility and quick decision-making add a critical layer of defense for the Coyotes.
Both Reid and Shorter are preparing for their next game against Southern Illinois on September 28, a date that will likely attract even more scouting attention. The blend of these players' abilities showcases the depth and versatility of the South Dakota secondary, a testament to Taylor's coaching acumen.
NFL Prospects and Beyond
One of the jewels of Taylor’s tenure is Myles Harden, a former player who participated in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl before being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Harden’s journey from college standout to NFL draftee highlights the potential pathways for current and future Coyotes under Taylor’s mentorship.
The success stories stemming from the South Dakota secondary are part of a larger narrative about the nurturing environment provided by the Coyotes' program. Taylor’s professional background as an Iowa Hawkeye and his capacity to connect with his players have facilitated the development of high-caliber athletes capable of transitioning to the next level.
Comparative Talents Across Colleges
While the South Dakota secondary is making waves, other talents around the nation are also turning heads. For instance, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne is another name worth noting. A football player for Ithaca, Leonard-Osbourne is also an exceptional indoor track and field athlete, having won the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with a remarkable time of 6.72 seconds. He holds the school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. Leonard-Osbourne’s next game is against Curry College on September 28, providing another opportunity for scouts to witness his dual-sport versatility.
Then there's Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri, a player who has distinguished himself to the point of winning the Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing tall at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski has proven to be a pivotal player for his team. His upcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 will undoubtedly be another test of his abilities.
Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University is also on the radar. Playing at 6-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Davies-Lyons participated in the Usports East-West Bowl this past spring, showcasing his skills on a significant stage. His next game against Carleton on September 28 is highly anticipated as he continues to build his football resume.
The Bigger Picture
While each of these players represents different facets of their respective programs, the common thread is the relentless pursuit of excellence and the ambition to make an impact both on and off the field. For South Dakota's secondary, the blend of seasoned coaching, emerging talent, and the consistent presence of NFL scouts paints a promising picture for the future.
Coach Miles Taylor’s influence continues to shine through the achievements of his current and former players. As the games approach, the spotlight on this secondary—and those similar across the country—grows brighter, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season of college football.