Speed Makes 4-Star 2022 CB/WR Matthew McDoom Elite Against 8A Florida Competition
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Speed on the gridiron kills, and Matthew McDoom is an 8A Florida team killer. The 5-9, 160-pound, athlete did a little bit of everything for West Orange High School during the 2019 season at the skill positions in all three phases highlighted at receiver, cornerback, and as a kick returner. The overall skillset coupled with his 10.7 time in the 100 has earned McDoom four-star recruiting status and six Division-I scholarship offers.
With an opportunity to expand upon his growing abilities at the highest level the Sunshine State has to offer, McDoom has hit the offseason hard ready to break some more ankles and leave the competition in the dust come fall 2020. For the inside scoop on his workouts and recruiting, I got some time with the Winter Garden area prospect.
Interview
Matt, your burst and quickness in space is ridiculous and then add your breakaway speed to the mix, that is a dangerous combination. What is the best-timed run you’ve posted?
“My fastest time in the 100, I ran a 10.7.”
Impressive.
“Thank you.”
You were able to be an impact player in all three phases of the game last season. Let’s start today on offense. Where all were you lining up and how were the coaches getting the ball into your hands?
“I was mostly at “X” last year, they really wanted me to do a lot of jet sweeps, quick passes, hitches and slants so I can use my speed. One game they had me at running back, they got some screen passes to me out of the backfield.”
On special teams you were able to further showcase your field vision and elite speed. How did that part of your game progress during your sophomore season?
“It made me better, it made my eyes more open helping with my field vision.”
Lining up at corner for the Warriors, what were some of the coverages you guys were executing?
“We ran a lot of Cover 3, not that much man, wish we did more, and some Cover 2, but mostly Cover 3.”
How did your skills as a corner improve in 2019?
“They improved a lot. This offseason I have been working on my footwork, opening my hips, reading the receiver, and staying patient.”
Are you taking on all the same roles in 2020?
“Yes. I am taking on the same really. A lot of offense, a lot of defense, and a lot of special teams. Coach will put me where I can make the biggest impact.”
You started to touch on this a minute ago, but drilling deeper. What have you been focusing on with your game this offseason?
“This offseason I have been working on my footwork, opening my hips, reading the receiver – his hips, and my patience. On offense, I have been working on my hands, I have speed, and working on my routes, my breaks, and my release.”
Turning to recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered just yet?
“Memphis. I talked to one of their coaches, they told me they like me.”
How many offers have been given to you?
“Six.”
Which programs were the last couple to offer?
“Cincinnati, Penn State, and FIU.”
McDoom’s Offer Sheet: Central Florida, Cincinnati, Florida International, Maryland, Penn State, and Purdue
Once the NCAA mandated dead period is over, are there any planned visits on your schedule?
“I want to take a lot of visits, mostly to the schools that have offered like Penn State, UCF, and Maryland.”
When does the team report as a group to begin preparation for this fall?
“I have no idea; I’m kind of upset about that. I don’t know.”
After a break from the action, what has you excited to be back at it?
“I am so excited to get back. I can’t wait.”
Matt, thanks for your time today. Wishing you luck with the rest of your workouts this summer until we talk again.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: TK Photography/McDoom family; Matt McDoom
Photo credit: McDoom family; Matt McDoom