Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Michigan State Linebacker Wayne Matthews III Injured at USC, Taken to Hospital

Team officials report intact motor skills following transfer to a Los Angeles trauma center.

Overview

  • Matthews went down with 42 seconds left in the second quarter while tackling USC running back Waymond Jordan and was immobilized, backboarded and carted to an ambulance.
  • A Michigan State spokesman said Matthews has motor function, and on-site reporters noted he gave a thumbs-up as he was taken into the tunnel, with further testing pending at LA General Hospital.
  • Medical staff cut off his jersey as players from both teams gathered nearby, and the Spartans held a prayer huddle during a lengthy stoppage before play resumed.
  • The Spartans also lost starting linebacker Jordan Hall to a targeting ejection, and safety Nikai Martinez and lineman Quindarius Dunnigan exited after a collision on the previous snap.
  • USC scored on the first play after the delay, led 24-10 at halftime and went on to win 45-31 in the Big Ten opener at the Coliseum.