Brian Branch explains how much he's grown over the past two seasons

Head coach Nick Saban is going to have some experience in the secondary next season, with Brian Branch entering his junior season. The defensive back has played all across the field for the Alabama Crimson Tide, ranging from cornerback, nickelback/STAR, and even got playing time at safety last year.

Branch was asked how much he has grown since arriving in Tuscaloosa and going into his third season. He cited that being able to play all three positions as a defensive back has really helped him grow as a player, especially when he was still in the learning phase.

“Between my first and second year, I feel like knowing the playing, getting the scheme, and everything because I was moving around a lot,” Branch said. “Just knowing each position really helped me. That’s all. I feel like it’s going to give me a big boost for this third year.”

Branch has already played in 27 games in an Alabama uniform, making 53 tackles and 5.5 tackles for a loss. His two career interceptions came as a freshman, getting them against the Arkansas Razorbacks and Auburn Tigers. He is expected to once again be a huge part of what the Crimson Tide does this season, playing all around the field.

Alabama will have two inexperienced cornerbacks making way this season, potentially a place Branch can help out. He and Malachi Moore have both played at STAR throughout their careers as well. Wherever defensive coordinator Pete Golding decides to put Branch, he will have the experience at all positions to play at an elite level.

Brian Branch discusses what he has learned from Malachi Moore

After a successful sophomore campaign, Branch is back to anchor the defense with Will Anderson and Henry To’oto’o. The Tyrone, Georgia, native discussed another key member of the defense last week – fellow 2020 signee Malachi Moore.

“I don’t know what he’s taken from me but I know what I’ve taken from him,” Branch said, discussing what he’s learned from Moore over the last two years. “That’s his technique and his IG, what he does in certain situations that I think is unique.”

Moore had 17 tackles last season for the Tide with one interception. Those figures were down from his freshman season when he had 44 tackles and three interceptions. The Trussville, Alabama, native also had returned a fumble recovery for a touchdown in 2020. Despite splitting time with Branch at nickel last season, Moore has a big opportunity to increase his production as a starting piece for Nick Saban as a junior.