Interview: 4-Star 2022 Bishop Gorman FS Zion Branch Talks Playoffs and Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On a team loaded with talent, it is hard for anyone player to truly standout but that is what free safety Zion Branch is doing this season with Bishop Gorman (9-1). The super sophomore has compiled 23 tackles, 21 solo, with four picks, forced a fumble, and blocked a field goal in stats posted through nine games. Even those stats are skewed considering how badly the Gaels have pummeled the competition this season seeing most of the starters on the sidelines in the second half of games. The play and versatility of the 6-2.5, 190-pound, defender has caught attention from college scouts nationwide with seven offers delivered to the Las Vegas area product, and interest continues to grow.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the four-star Class of 2022 recruit covering his season, Bishop Gorman’s push for an 11th consecutive Nevada state championship, and received an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Zion, the Gaels have turned in another stellar regular season with a 9-1 record. The defense has been nasty, especially over the last six games pitching five shutouts. What are you guys doing so well leading to the domination of opposing offenses?
“We watch a lot of film, most importantly our defense has clicked. We have bonded like a family and it is paying off.”
What is your part in the defense and what are your responsibilities?
“My part is to communicate with everyone so we are on the same page to be successful. I am a hybrid player on our defense. I can play deep and come down against the run.”
With the box applying the pressure, the secondary has been a standout unit picking off 18 total passes. You have four of those, second-best on the team. What are you doing well leading to the four picks?
“As you said, it really is the front seven getting to the quarterback making it easy for me. Praise to our front seven.”
How have the other parts of your game grown this season?
“My game has grown with my improved technique. I am lower in my backpedal and better coming out of my breaks.”
Which coverages are the Gaels executing?
“We run a base Cover 4, but we also run Cover 2 and Cover 3. It depends on the offense we are playing. Our base is a Cover 4 with two-high safeties.”
Which game has been your best?
“My best personal game was our game in Hawaii (vs. St. Louis). Even though we lost (31-19), I had a lot of solo tackles in that game. It would have been great to come out of that game with a win.”
Turning to recruiting. Which schools that you know of are showing interest?
“Most of the Pac-12 schools are like UCLA, USC, Washington, Oregon, and Oregon State. Other schools like Florida, Texas A&M, and Florida State are also showing interest.”
How many offers have you received?
“Seven.”
Branch’s Offer Sheet: Arizona, Arizona State, Auburn, Boise State, Colorado, UNLV, and Utah
Nice. From the summer to now, have you visited any schools?
“Yes. I recently went to Arizona and Arizona State a couple of weeks ago. I went to Boise State, UCLA and USC this summer.”
Going with the most recent visits. Tell me about the Arizona trip.
“It was great. I went to their game against Washington. I met a lot of the coaches. I loved it there.”
And the ASU visit, how did that go?
“It was great too. We went the day after the Arizona game. We toured the facilities and I met all the coaches. It was great.”
The playoffs for you guys kickoff against Coronado (5-5). What kind of game are you expecting from the Cougars offense?
“We are expecting a heavy passing game. We are expecting them to open it up against us. Our front seven is strong, we cannot be run on. I am expecting them to pass a lot because they will not be able to run it on us.”
If the Gaels run the slate again, how many consecutive Nevada championships will this be for you guys?
“That will be 11 straight Nevada state championships.”
Wow. What does it mean to you to bring home another trophy for your school?
“It means a lot. It is special for the seniors to go out as championship, I want them to leave on the right foot. It would be special for all of us to win our 11th straight championship.”
Zion, I appreciate your time today and wish you and the team success in the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Branch family; Zion Branch 2019 season and at Boise State (June 2019)