This past week, Dino Babers brought in his second JUCO running back of the cycle. After the Lequint Allen suspension, the backfield is a position of need. John Branham Jr. a native of Columbus, Ohio, joins the Orange from Blinn College. The Buccanneers, best known as the school Cam Newton attended, went just 3-6 last season.
Branham however, shined on the struggling team. He had 107 carries for 648 yards and seven touchdowns. Branham had four games with over 100 yards. Branham has a YouTube to which page he posts regularly, including his highlights and workout videos.
Branham stands at 5’10” 205 pounds and thrives regarding yards after contact. Branham looks to have a similar style to Sean Tucker however may not have the same top-end speed as Tucker. With the shiftiness around the line of scrimmage, Branham could see a lot of time as a short-yardage back and potential crack into the regular rotation.
Where Branham struggles is catching passes. Last season, he only had three receptions. Branham did have 40 yards on those catches, including one for 22 yards so the potential is there. Even then though, he doesn’t seem to be the type of player that would be on
There is still so much question about who will be the RB1 this season. Fall camp starts in just a few weeks so we should have a better idea of who will be significant contributors soon. With the play style of Garrett Shrader, the running back is one of the most important positions on the field. If the running back on the field doesn’t pose a threat to opposing defenses, Shrader’s job will be much harder. With the amount of RPO and play-action throws, the defense will sit back if Branham or another running back doesn’t step up and fill the role.
