Sources: USC star Branch game-time call vs

• Pete Thamel, ESPNOct 14, 2023, 07:30 AM ET

USC star receiver and kick returner Zachariah Branch is considered a game-time decision against Notre Dame on Saturday, sources informed ESPN.Branch, a real freshman, hasn’t played the previous 2 games and has not been a full individual in practice today due to the fact that of an undisclosed injury.USC coach Lincoln Riley framed Branch’s return this week as unlikely, as he indicated this week that Branch has actually been “making progress” toward returning, but would need to “make some dives” in order to return.Sources indicated that Branch has actually made the journey with the team to Notre Dame for the game and no main decision will be made till after pregame warmups.Branch did not dress for warmups the past two weeks, and any

possible return would not be on a day where the forecast calls for rainy conditions.Branch quickly established himself as one of the most vibrant players in college football, as he scored two receiving touchdowns and two special teams touchdowns in USC’s first four games.Branch caught 13 passes for 178 lawns in 4 games and is averaging 22.5 lawns per punt return and 28.5 lawns per kickoff return.Branch has actually measured up to his embellished billing, as he entered the season as the nation’s top pass receiver recruit and a top-10 total in the ESPN

recruiting rankings.