Michigan State linebacker Wayne Matthews III was taken off the field on a stretcher and hospitalized after a scary collision during Saturday night's loss to USC.
Matthews, who is in his second year with the Spartans after three seasons at Old Dominion, was carted off after making a tackle on a run play late in the first half. He was immobilized on a backboard but did give a thumbs up to the crowd while being wheeled to an ambulance.
On Sunday, Matthews shared a positive update on his condition, much to the relief of MSU fans and anyone else who saw his situation unfold.
"Thank you for all your prayers and support! I’m doing a lot better now! I’ll be back in no time," Matthews wrote on X/Twitter.
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
Avoiding the worst-case scenario
Obviously, the first good indicator for Matthews was his thumbs up as he left the field on his way to Los Angeles General Medical Center, a Level 1 Trauma Center.
After the game, Michigan State head coach Jonathan Smith said there were other "positive signs" for the veteran linebacker, whose motor skills reportedly remained intact.
“Positive signs for Wayne Matthews III,” Smith said postgame. “That is what I was quickly told. All the others got injured and could not return. We are waiting on confirmation from the staff for Wayne to see if he has to stay in LA or will be heading home.”
Matthews did reportedly fly home with the Spartans after the 45-31 loss.
What's next for Matthews?
It's great to see Matthews saying he'll be back in no time, but of course he has to be cleared by doctors before he can even practice again, let alone play in more games.
Matthews, 23, was a third-team All-Sun Belt selection for Old Dominion in 2023, when he recorded 135 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.
In his first season with Michigan State, Matthews logged 33 tackles in 2024. He has 26 through four games so far this fall, including 10 in a win over Bowling Green earlier this month.
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