Jim Branch Season 1970

1972 (Senior)
Jim earned the starting spot for two years. He wavered between graduating and playing his senior year, then decided to play. He had outstanding play in the ‘72 nationally televised Colorado game, earning Player-of-the-Game recognition and a $1,000 Chevrolet scholarship for Nebraska. Jim finished the season with 70 tackles, 20 unassisted, one for a loss of four yards and three pass break ups. 

Nebraska had the best defense in the Big Eight, allowing just 219.2 yards per game. The Huskers ranked first in passing defense (106.5 ypg) and second in rushing defense (112.7 ypg).

1971 (Junior)
Branch moved into the starting lineup as a junior when Bill Sloey was hurt in the season opener against Oregon. Branch finished with 57 tackles, 21 unassisted and broke up two passes. 

Branch helped the Huskers to a dominant defensive season. Ranking first in the Big Eight in rushing (85.9 ypg), passing (117.0), scoring (8.2 ppg) and total defense (202.9 ypg). Nebraska finished with an undefeated record (13-0) and beat Alabama 38-6, in the National Championship game.

1970 (Sophomore)
Branch was a solid reserve on the ‘70 National Champions.

Linblom Tech (Chicago, Illinois)
Jim earned All-City and All-State honors under Coach Dutch Von Bremer. He was attending Teachers College and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Branch.