Alabama’s defensive secondary is loaded with playmakers, but one has emerged in hopes for a defined role.
Brian Branch, a sophomore, has All-American potential. He was not a traditional starter in 2020, yet he stood out in preseason camp and made plays. A native of Tyrone, Ga., Branch defended nine passes (seven breakups, two interceptions) last year to tie for third in the Southeastern Conference among freshmen defenders. He played in 12 games, including three starts versus Mississippi State, Notre Dame, and Ohio State. The 6-foot, 190-pounder recorded seven tackles and four breakups in the College Football Playoff, including a season-high three breakups against the Buckeyes to help the Crimson Tide win a national championship.
RELATED: Alabama’s Henry To’oto’o and Christian Harris playing well off each other
He has not found a role to call home; however, Branch has thoroughly impressed Nick Saban in fall practice.
According to his head coach, Branch has done enough to where the staff must find a spot for him.
“He’s had a really good camp,” Saban said. “He’s done a really good job, and maybe we’ve asked him to do a lot of different things. We’ve played him at star, corner, money, and safety, so he’s played every position in the secondary. We need to put him in a place and get him some reps at that position, so he can feel good about playing fast. When he is confident, he’s a real playmaker.”
Branch’s versatility makes him a needed commodity. He finished his career at Sandy Creek High School as the program’s all-time leader for interceptions. Coach Saban knows Branch is too good of a talent to keep on the bench.
He has always been one to have his best players on the field. A defined role is for him, but it depends on where Branch is most comfortable.
Alabama’s defensive backfield will be lethal against opposing quarterbacks, especially if Branch is out there.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
