Michigan State Spartans linebacker Wayne Matthews III had a significant injury scare on Saturday night against the new No. 21 USC. The Trojans ran a routine running play with USC up 17-10 and driving into the Spartans’ territory late in the second quarter.
However, inside the pile, Matthews was hurt. He ended up prone on the ground, and medical staff rushed out to treat him. His helmet was removed, placed on a backboard, and carted off the field while his teammates huddled together and prayed for him.
Thankfully, on Sunday, things are looking much brighter for Matthews.
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Matthews is feeling much better now. He was checked out at L.A. General Hospital and flew home with the team. He posted on X, “Thank you for all your prayers and support! I’m doing a lot better now! I’ll be back in no time.”
Thank you for all your prayers and support! I’m doing a lot better now! I’ll be back in no time.
— Wayne Matthews III (@WayneM9_) September 21, 2025
According to Yahoo! Sports, Matthews’ motor skills and ability to move are intact, and he was strapped to the backboard as a precaution.
“What I was just told, quickly, that going through all the thorough evaluation, took him over to the hospital, positive signs, but they’re looking for confirmation on tests and things,” said Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith. “But positive signs, that’s what I was quickly told.”
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The play was routine, but a teammate accidentally hit him in the head, leading to his head snapping back. It quickly became apparent that something was seriously wrong. Right after the play ended, a teammate waved to the sideline for help.
As Matthews was examined, the Spartan players huddled and prayed for him. They then stood and watched as the team’s training staff lifted him.
It was an emotional moment, and it also altered the way the Spartans’ defense played for the rest of the game. They were already missing linebacker Jordan Hall, who was ejected for targeting earlier in the half.
Matthews is also the Spartans’ “green dot” who helps call the plays on defense. One play after Matthews’ exit, the Trojans scored a touchdown. The second half didn’t go much better for the Spartans. The Trojans scored another 21 points on the MSU defense and closed out the game with a 45-31 win.
However, the most important development is that Matthews is apparently in good spirits and health. His playing status is unclear, but the fact that Matthews was able to fly home and tell the public he’s doing well is good news.
