Zion Branch: Scouting Report
Size
Zion Branch has prototypical height for a college safety. He is solidly built and has the potential to add strength with a frame that has room to fill out. He has good length and fits the mold for the safety position. Branch has close to ideal size in every way and can play in the box or off the ball as a deep safety.
Athleticism
Branch is a good athlete who has the speed and range to cover ground in the secondary. He is explosive closing on the football showing great acceleration to close on plays. Branch is solid laterally, but could improve his change of direction ability as he develops. He is a good athlete who has the mobility to play various schemes and positions.
Coverage Skills
Branch has excellent instincts in coverage and shows a good feel for where the play is going. He is comfortable in various positions and can play in different coverage schemes. Branch is solid in man coverage but could improve his technique in this area to help against better receivers. He is still good enough in man coverage and thrives in zone where his instincts help him to anticipate plays.
Ball Skills
Branch has good body control and strong hands that help him to convert interceptions. His instincts and length help him to get to the football quickly and he does a good job of getting to it at the same time as or before the receiver to break up the play. Branch is strong in contested situations and will fight for the ball and make a play for the defense on a 50/50 ball.
Run Support / Tackling
Branch is an excellent tackler who delivers a big hit and wraps up the ball carrier effectively. He tackles with force, finishing the play through the offensive player to make sure he is down. Branch takes good angles against the run and is physical enough to beat blockers in space to make the tackle.
Projection
Zion Branch has the size and athletic ability to succeed in any scheme as a safety. His instincts, ball skills and tackling ability help him to be an impact player in every phase of the game. He is a complete player who projects to develop into an all conference type performer at the next level.
For scouting reports on other USC commits visit the team page.
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