Brian Branch explains what he's learned from fellow defensive back Malachi Moore

Returning safety Brian Branch is heading into year three with the Alabama Crimson Tide. After a successful sophomore campaign, he’s 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.

Branch provides scouting report on Alabama transfer cornerback Eli Ricks

On top of the No. 2 recruiting class in the nation, Nick Saban brought in three big additions this offseason for the 2022 season. Former LSU Tigers cornerback Eli Ricks opted to transfer to Alabama and he is already leaving a good impression with his new teammates. Branch shared his scouting report for Ricks on Tuesday.

“Eli is tall, he’s a good solid DB,” Branch said. “I feel like he has good technique and he has the skillset to be one of the best corners in the league.”

Ricks was on the way to being one of the top corners in the SEC after his freshman season. However, his 2021 season was short. He suffered a season-ending injury after six games. As a true freshman, he racked up 20 tackles (11 solo stops), half a tackle for a loss, nine passes defended, four interceptions and two touchdowns.

Branch isn’t the only Crimson Tide defender impressed with the third-year cornerback.

“Definitely talented,” former Vol Henry To’oTo’o said of Ricks. “He works really, really hard. Ever since he came in, day one, he wanted to learn, he wanted to work out in the weight room 24/7. He wanted to get in off-field work. He’s been in the training room 24/7, so whenever I’m in there, I see him in there. So, it’s the little things like that that you kind of take note of with players like that, and know that he’s going to be a good addition to the program.”