Zachariah Branch, one of the most explosive players in America, is at risk of missing his third game in a row for the USC Trojans while he nurses an injury. During Thursday’s media availability, Coach Riley talked about how Branch had yet to be a full participant in practice.
Per Coach Riley, Zachariah Branch has yet to be a full participant in practice as he works back from injury. He has made progress from last week, but still isn’t there yet.
— Ryan Dyrud (@RyanDyrudLAFB) October 12, 2023
SC is at risk of not having their star freshmen WR against ND this Saturday@USC_LAFB | @LAFBNetwork
“Zachariah Branch is going to need to make some jumps to be ready for us,” Riley said. “He’s not able to do everything yet.”
Coach Riley didn’t elaborate on what injury Branch is dealing with, so unfortunately, that remains a mystery. There is an outside shot that Branch is available for the 94th clash between the Trojans and Fighting Irish, but it seems like a long shot based on Riley’s comments.
The USC offense struggled in the 2nd half of the Colorado game, and even though they put up 43 points in a triple overtime win last week, they never looked in rhythm and struggled to convert on 3rd down. Branch certainly adds a dynamic element to the offense, and has been a tremendous outlet for Caleb Williams in open space.
If he cannot go, the Trojans offense will look to their deep receiving corps to carry the load and provide a spark that just wasn’t there last week.
So far on the season, Zachariah Branch has 13 receptions for 178 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also has 329 return yards and 2 touchdowns.