In the world of college football, talent and strategic coaching often set the stage for future NFL careers. South Dakota's secondary unit, under the mentorship of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, has become an area of interest for NFL scouts. Taylor, a distinguished former Iowa Hawkeye, has been at the helm of South Dakota’s defensive backs since 2020. His expertise and vision have groomed notable players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter, setting them on promising paths in their football careers.
The Rising Stars: Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter
Among the standouts in South Dakota's secondary are cornerback Mike Reid and safety Dennis Shorter. Reid, a formidable 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a compact but powerful 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, exemplify Taylor’s impact on player development. As they prepare to face Southern Illinois on September 28, their performance will be closely watched by scouts looking for the next NFL talents.
Sculpting Future Prospects
Beyond Reid and Shorter, Taylor's influence is evident in the career trajectory of Myles Harden. Harden, another product of Taylor’s guidance, showcased his skills at the East-West Shrine Bowl and caught the eye of the Cleveland Browns. His selection in the seventh round of the NFL Draft serves as a testament to both his talent and the robust training program under Taylor’s leadership.
Expanding Horizons: Jalen Leonard-Osbourne and Zach Zebrowski
The football spirit and athletic excellence extend beyond South Dakota. Jalen Leonard-Osbourne, representing Ithaca, holds the distinction of winning the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds. Known for his speed, Leonard-Osbourne also set a school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next challenge on the gridiron comes against Curry College on September 28, where his athletic prowess will undoubtedly be on display.
Equally noteworthy is Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri, whose outstanding performance earned him the Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski is not only a physical specimen but also a remarkable quarterback. His upcoming game against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28 provides an opportunity for him to further cement his status as one of the top players in Division II football.
International Talent: Brandon Davies-Lyons
Shifting focus to the Canadian scene, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has marked his presence by participating in the Usports East-West Bowl. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound player brings significant size and skill to the field. Davies-Lyons' next game against Carleton on September 28 will be crucial for his ongoing development and exposure to larger audiences.
Anticipating Next Steps
The anticipation builds as these athletes gear up for their respective games on September 28. For Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter, the clash against Southern Illinois will test their mettle and showcase their readiness for potential NFL futures. Similarly, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons will aim to leverage their upcoming matchups to boost their profiles and demonstrate their capabilities.
As scouts and fans alike keep a keen eye on these games, the contributions of coaches like Miles Taylor remain invaluable. Taylor’s role in nurturing and developing talent ensures that the pipeline to professional football remains robust and dynamic. The journey of these athletes, from college standouts to potential NFL stars, is a testament to the dedication, training, and mentorship that shape their paths.
The games on September 28 are more than just contests; they are pivotal moments for players like Reid, Shorter, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons. Their performances will likely rewrite their future opportunities, making each play and each snap a critical part of their sporting narratives.
As the football season progresses, South Dakota's secondary and these distinguished athletes will continue to draw attention, reflecting the high-caliber talent and the promise of more successes to come in their budding careers.