USC football's recruitment of 5-star wide receiver has 'taken off'
USC signed two five-star prospects in the 2023 class in Zachariah Branch and Malachi Nelson. In 2024, the Trojans haven't landed a five-star recruit yet, but they're firmly in the mix for Parkview (Lilburn, Ga.) wide out Mike Matthews, according to 247Sports.com National Recruiting Director Steve Wiltfong.
"Tennessee and USC are two programs that have taken off with him since last summer," Wiltfong said on his YouTube show on Thursday. "He got a chance to go out to USC for the first time and he's going back for his official visit. He loved his time with Lincoln Riley. He loves that offense, loves what receivers have done under Coach Riley. He's excited to get back out there...I could see this recruitment going a few different ways."
Matthews is the No. 6 rated prospect nationally, per the 247Sports.com composite.
Here's 247Sports.com's scouting report on the five-star prospect.
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.
