Detroit Lions rookie Brian Branch intercepts Patrick Mahomes and TAKES IT TO THE HOUSE!
LET'S FREAKING GO!!! Just moments ago, with the Detroit Lions trailing the Kansas City Chiefs by a score of 14-7 in the third quarter, rookie Brian Branch made an absolute statement by intercepting Patrick Mahomes and taking it to the house!
Brian Branch Intercepts Patrick Mahomes
Take a look as Branch showed exactly why the Lions coaching staff is so excited about him as he picks off Mahomes and takes it back for six.
.@NFL, meet @brianbb_1 #DETvsKC | 🎥 NBC pic.twitter.com/6L7m6SZSrF
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 8, 2023
Why it Matters
Heading into tonight's game, Patrick Mahomes had NEVER thrown an interception in a Week 1 game. On top of that, the Pick 6 by Branch was only the third Pick 6 Mahomes has thrown in his entire career. Following an extra point by the Lions, the game was tied up 14-14 in the third quarter.
Brian Branch sums up his game
“I'm basically like a linebacker who can cover,” Branch said during training camp. “I'm close to the line of scrimmage. A lot more stuff goes on near the line of scrimmage. And being able to hit and cover at the same time.”
TL;DR (too long didn't read)
- Rookie Sensation: Lions rookie Brian Branch made a significant impact on the game by intercepting Patrick Mahomes and returning the pick for a touchdown.
- Historical Feat: Patrick Mahomes, known for his exceptional quarterback skills, had never thrown an interception in a Week 1 game prior to this moment. Moreover, the Pick 6 by Branch marked only the third time in Mahomes' entire career that he had thrown such an interception.
- Versatile Defensive Talent: Brian Branch's versatility as a defensive player was on full display. Describing himself as a “linebacker who can cover,” Branch's ability to excel both in coverage and near the line of scrimmage was evident in his game-changing interception.
Bottom Line: Welcome to the NFL Brian Branch!
Branch's interception and touchdown return against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs was a game-changer in every sense. It highlighted the potential of this rookie sensation, shattered historical expectations, and showcased his versatility as a defensive player. This play not only electrified Lions fans but also signaled a promising future for Branch in the NFL.