In his first season on the Flats, defensive lineman Desmond Branch played strongside end and some defensive tackle in pass rushing situations, but this year he is a full-time tackle. Branch is tasked with replacing departed senior Patrick Gamble and his 7.5 sacks last season along with a new position.

The junior defensive lineman spent two years at a junior college playing some tackle, but he said there is a major difference between Trinity Valley Community College and ACC offensive linemen.

"There is definitely a learning curve, but I did play some inside at my junior college so I kind of know how it is, but it is a level higher, D-1 is higher than JUCO so I just have to get acclimated to the speed," he said. "I learned that the business side of things and how you have to take the game seriously on and off the field."