USC faced a setback as wide receiver and special teams standout Zachariah Branch entered the transfer portal, following his brother Zion Branch’s departure. This departure adds to the challenges faced by Head Coach Lincoln Riley’s Trojans squad, who endured a tough 6-6 season.
Notably, two former teammates, Alabama’s Domani Jackson and Arizona State’s Raleek Brown, expressed support for Branch’s decision with encouraging social media posts. Brown even commented “Smart Man” on the situation. Both Jackson and Brown themselves found success as four-star transfers after leaving USC during the previous portal cycle.
The Trojans’ disappointing season mirrored Branch’s underwhelming performance. Despite leading USC in receptions with 47 and ranking second in receiving yards with 503, Branch’s sophomore campaign saw a dip in special teams production and a decrease in offensive touchdown production. However, Branch remains a highly regarded prospect, holding the No. 3 overall ranking and No. 2 wide receiver spot in the transfer portal.
Branch’s explosive speed, which drew comparisons to NFL star Tyreek Hill during his high school days, sets him apart as a coveted talent. His track background and immediate impact in college football, where he returned a kick for a touchdown in his debut game, highlight his potential to make a significant impact at an elite program. Branch’s proven abilities as a playmaker could attract attention from various top-tier college football teams, promising an exciting next chapter in his career.
