On a defense that yielded 34 points and 180 rushing yards, it's hard to find a player worthy of praise. But Arizona defensive end Alan Branch, a backup, played well enough Sunday against the Chargers to earn more time this week, coach Ken Whisenhunt said.
Branch finished with three tackles, including one for loss. He substituted for right end Calais Campbell and was part of a scheme that included four defensive linemen, one more than usual.
"Alan Branch definitely showed up in the game last week and he is one of the guys you have to consider playing more," Whisenhunt said. "He was very disruptive. You've seen signs of Alan doing that this year. I can only point to the fact that he's lighter."
Branch, in his fourth season, is in better shape this year than last season, but isn't ready to say he's turning a corner.
"This has only been a couple of games in a season," Branch said. "I'd like to do well throughout the whole year. You are not going to be any good unless you are your biggest critic."
Even with Branch playing better, the Arizona defense isn't very good, and can only be used in fantasy in certain matchups.
