Interview: Washington 2017 LB Michael Matthews Talks Montana Grizzlies Commitment

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

Football fans in the state of Washington may still be wondering how Michael Matthews got away. On Thursday, the Camas High School star verbally committed to the University of Montana putting an end to his recruiting process, a loss, whether recognized or not, for Washington, Washington State, and Eastern Washington.

Matthews was not just one of the more productive linebackers in the state of Washington during his junior season, he was one of the bigger stat line producers in the nation. He led the Papermakers into the 4A playoffs ending the season with an 11-1 record. Along the way, Matthews had 153 tackles, 18 tackles for a loss, three sacks, and one interception earning 4A GSHL (Greater St. Helen’s League) Co-Defensive Player of the Year, first team All-League, and first team All-Region at linebacker.

Camas is once again undefeated going 11-0 on the year, currently ranked No. 1 in the state by MaxPreps, with a matchup in the third round of the playoffs with perennial powerhouse Skyline. Revenge will be on the minds of the Papermakers next Friday after the Spartans ended their run in the playoffs in 2015. Season stats have not been released yet, but the leader of the pack is once again Matthews. The 6-2, 205 pound, athlete is getting it done on both sides of the ball leading the team on offense at running back as well as on defense at linebacker.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Matthews to get the inside scoop on why he committed to Montana with a quick update on his senior season.

Interview

Michael, you guys are already into the second round of the playoffs, how does the team look?

“The team looks great. We have really good senior leadership and we have playmakers all over the field. I like our chances getting to the championship game. We have a good thing going.”

How has the season gone for you on the field?

“I’m having a great season. I was named Defensive Player of the Year again in league. I was named All-League at running back too.”

How have you upped your game on the field at linebacker this season over your junior year?

“I have gotten a lot faster and stronger. I get off blocks better this year. That was a point of emphasis this summer. I’m tackling even better this year than last.”

Let’s talk about your commitment. How many offers did you have before committing to Montana?

“Six.”

Have you taken any unofficial or official visits this season?

“No official visits yet. The only official visit I am taking is one to Montana at the end of my season. I went to EWU (Eastern Washington) for a game this fall along with all the traveling I did this spring and summer.”

What influenced you to commit to the Grizzlies?

“I really like their coaching staff and the area, and of course the style of football they play there. Coach (Bob) Stitt (head coach) starting talking to me more and more as the season went on. My parents and I like it there athletically, personally, and with their academics. We really like the city of Missoula too.”

How did the commitment take place?

“I called coach Stitt and told him I’m going to be a Griz. He was going into a defensive meeting when I called him. All the coaches were there, they were really excited. It happened really fast.”

How did the coaches respond to your commitment?

“They were fired up. They offered me as a linebacker. They want me to play any of the three linebacker spots. I’m set up for a great future there. They are as fired up as I am about the future.”

This is a big deal and a big moment. How did you feel at that moment when you verbally committed?

“I was so excited. I admit I had butterflies in my stomach. My mom was emotional and happy. She knows I have been dreaming about this moment, the opportunity to play college football on a scholarship. We were very excited.”

Do you plan on recruiting other players to join you?

(Laughs) “They did that to me. My best fired is committed there (Skylar Martin DE/TE) and another one of my very close friends (RJ Nelson, DE, Hillsboro) is there. If they want me to help with recruiting, I’ll definitely try to get kids to come to UM.”

Michael, congratulations on your commitment and good luck in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: The Columbian; No. 12 Michael Matthews finds running room.

Photo credit: Matthews family; Michael Matthews, Skylar Martin, and RJ Nelson.

Photo credit: Camas-Washougal Post-Record; No. 12 Michael Matthews scores a touchdown.