Notes: Brian Branch reveals coach who had biggest impact on his life

The Detroit Lions coaching staff continues to impress. Brian Branch pointed to a Lions coach who has had the biggest impact on his life.

In the midst of a stellar season so far, Brian Branch says there’s one coach in particular who helped him get to where he is today.

On the latest episode of the St. Brown Brothers Podcast, Amon-Ra asked the defensive back if there was a player or coach who had the biggest impact on his career. Without hesitation, Branch replied Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.

“AG. For one, he did play this game for a long time. He treats everybody the same and I feel like he gave me a lot of tools that I could put in my toolbox to help sharpen me and my game. He always stays on top of me, never lets me get too big-headed. He wants the best for me, and that’s all I could ask for from a coach. He’s pushing me everyday,” he said.

Clearly that coaching is working—Branch currently has four takeaways in five games. The Draft Network’s Ryan Fowler penned an article about why Branch is having a Defensive Player of the Year-caliber season.

“From the moment he stepped onto the field as a rookie out of Alabama, Branch’s understanding of the game—which often takes years for most players to develop—was evident in his first snaps as a pro. He identifies offensive architecture with precision, diagnosing plays, at times, before the ball is snapped. His ability to anticipate routes in coverage also places him in the right spot to make plays on the football, making him an invaluable presence for head coach Dan Campbell,” he writes.

You can watch the entire episode of the St. Brown Brother’s Podcast below.

And onto the rest of your notes.

• Former Dolphins and Vikings GM Rick Spielman, who also happens to be Chris Spielman’s brother, praises Sheila Hamp’s patience in getting the Lions to where they are today:

• Former QB Alex Smith joins Mina Kimes to talk about how most teams up against the Vikings would guard against negative plays, but the Lions matched this stellar defense’s aggression.

• “It doesn’t have to be a Maxx Crosby-level addition, but the Lions need another body.” As the trade deadline approaches, The Athletic NFL staff suggests which teams should trade, sell, or stand pat.

• Another from The Athletic — don’t look now but your Detroit Lions are standing in the very top spot in this week’s power rankings. ($)

• FOX 2’s Dan Miller sits down one-on-one with Jared Goff to relive the big win:

• Heartwarming — Roary and a few Lions cheerleaders drove all the way to the Upper Peninsula to surprise the wonderful Megan Stefanski with 2024 Lions Fan of the Year.

• Baldy just can’t stop breakin’ down Detroit plays:

• A little behind-the-scenes on how Dan Miller manages to be so elite as his job:

• The Lions-themed couples costumes are out in full force! I myself made a Dan Campbell pumpkin, which jealous squirrels destroyed the next morning. Probably Minnesota fans.