USC football 'is much more involved than people think' in recruitment of 5-star prospect
The reporting on five-star Parkview (Lilburn, Ga.) wide receiver Mike Matthews has been a roller coaster ride for USC fans.
Last week, On3.com predicted that Matthews would ultimately pick Tennessee. But the wide out is scheduled to visit USC next weekend and according to 247Sports.com's Benjamin Wolk, the Trojans are "much more involved in [the recruitment] than some people think."
Matthews officially visited Clemson last weekend. He will be at Georgia this weekend — the Bulldogs are another contender to land Matthews. After his USC trip, Matthews will end his visits with Tennessee.
The next few weeks should be very interesting...
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 180 pounds, Matthews is rated as the No. 9 prospect nationally in the 2024 class by the 247Sports.com composite. He's the No. 3 receiver.
Here's 247Sports.com's scouting report on Matthews:
A talented two-way athlete that some colleges view as a wide receiver long-term while others think he’s a future all-conference safety. Followed breakout sophomore season up with a monster junior campaign on offense as he averaged 21.5 yards per catch, totaling 1,030 yards and nine touchdowns through the air in the Peach State’s highest-classification. At one point reported a basketball offer from Mississippi State, and it’s pretty easy to see why as he’s extremely coordinated in almost everything he does and is always putting himself in position to make a play. Long-speed at point was a bit of a question mark, but tested exceptionally well spring before 12th grade year, clocking one of the fastest 40-yard dash times at a loaded camp outside of Atlanta. Tape also backs up the number as he’s constantly pulling away from defenders and creating separation on deeper routes. On the other side of the ball, has flashed the ability to quickly close gaps and get to the catch point while playing more of a center-field role. Must eventually pick a position, but should be viewed as one of the top overall talents in the 2024 cycle given how he moves out on the perimeter. NFL upside if he can keep progressing.
