Branch has an ambitious summer schedule

Flint (Mich.) Carman Ainsworth defensive tackle Tremondae Branch has put in a lot of work to get his name circulated in college football circles. The 6-1, 260-pound Branch attended the U.S. Army Combine in January and he has an ambitious camp schedule planned for this summer.

"I'm trying to make the most out of this summer," Branch said. "I'm going to Ohio State, Michigan State, Michigan, Indiana, Central Michigan, Western Michigan and we'll probably make it to Purdue for camp.

"My dad really wants to go to Arkansas because Coach (Reggie) Johnson, he's been the main one recruiting me from down there and they just got all my stuff. The coach from Wyoming, he's really interested and wants me to come out. We're probably going to get some plane tickets and head out there for camp."

Since the start of the Spring Evaluation Period, Branch has seen a rise in the number of schools showing interest, and several coaches have already been by the school.

"It's speeding up right now and things are really changing a lot," Branch noted. "Purdue and Buffalo were up at the school today to check up on me.

"The Purdue coach told me that I was a good player and I got off the ball and shed blockers really good. He told me he really wants me to come down there for their camp. The coach from Buffalo was telling me the difference between high school and college is the reaction off the ball. I'm working on stance and power and all that stuff right now."

Branch is still waiting on his first scholarship offer, but more teams are starting to discuss the topic in depth with the Michigan native.

"Central Michigan said when I come to camp, that's probably the time I'll get something," Branch said. "Then, Arkansas wants me to come down there and Wyoming wants me to come out, but Central's probably the main one that has said something about scholarships to me."

As a junior, Branch recorded 72 tackles and eight sacks for Carman Ainsworth. He has the ability to play defensive tackle or strongside defensive end at the college level.

"Most of the coaches say I could be a heck of a three-technique," Branch said. "I'll play anywhere on the d-line; it doesn't really matter to me."

Branch is also a standout for Carman Ainsworth's track team. As a sophomore he placed ninth in the state for discus. This year he has personal bests of 161' in the discus and 52' in the shot put.