USC Trojan wide receiver and kick returner Zachariah Branch is incredibly talented. You heard a lot about USC receivers Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane during preseason camp in August. Don’t forget about Branch, who is already an elite and proven kick returner, but still has a lot of room to grow as a receiver.

Branch was named to the Paul Hornung Award Watch List earlier in August. Now in its 14th year, the Paul Hornung Award recognizes the most versatile, high-level performer in college football.

This summer, Branch was also named to the 2024 Athlon Sports Preseason All-American First Team (as punt returner), Phil Steele Preseason All-American First Team (as punt returner), Athlon Sports Preseason All-Big Ten First Team (as kick returner and punt returner), Phil Steele Preseason All-Big Ten First Team (as punt returner).

Branch led the nation in punt returns last season, averaging 20.8 yards per return. He finished No. 3 in combined punt and kickoff return yards, with 774. Branch also returned a punt and kickoff for touchdowns.

He also collected 31 catches for 320 yards (10.3 average) with a long of 36 yards and scored 2 TDs. Branch also rushed for 70 yards on 9 carries (7.8 average). If Branch can “branch out” and become a devastatingly effective receiver who consistently gets open in Lincoln Riley’s scheme, USC’s offense could really take off in 2024.

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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Zachariah Branch gets his big chance to break out as a USC receiver