The hits just keep on coming for the USC Football team under head coach Lincoln Riley.
On Tuesday afternoon, it was reported that Zachariah and Zion Branch will both hit the transfer portal — thus ending their tenures as Trojans.
Hailing from Las Vegas, each player brought plenty of fanfare when entering college. Zion was a consensus 4-star safety with offers from all across the country. Young brother Zachariah was a 5-star national prospect and was widely considered among the most explosive players in his class.
Last year as a true freshman, Zachariah was named a First Team All-American as a returner. Throughout USC’s illustrious football history, the program had never had a true freshman All-American before Branch accomplished the feat.
Utilized as a returner and a receiver, Branch accrued 78 catches for 823 yards and 3 TDs over two seasons. The eye test told somewhat of an unusual story in 2024 for the soon-to-be junior. He didn’t look as explosive as he was the year prior. He also didn’t take the big leap many were expecting after such a spectacular inaugural campaign.
Zion had battled injuries for much of his career. He didn’t make too much of an impact other than being a reserve safety. It’ll be interesting to see where the brothers end up — especially if they opt to be a packaged deal. Early reports indicate that Zachariah is receiving interest from the likes of Michigan, Miami, Georgia, Louisville, Oklahoma, and Florida.
This news continues a rough offseason for Lincoln Riley and his program. Last year’s starting QB Miller Moss left the program and has since committed to Louisville. Receivers Kyron Hudson (Penn State) and Duce Robinson (undecided) have also left. Starting right guard Mason Murphy surprisingly departed for a new challenge. Lastly, budding star RB Quinten Joyner opted to move on presumably for a more run-heavy scheme.
In total, 18 Trojans have hit the transfer portal since the regular season has ended (with more expected to follow suit).
