It is rare seeing freshmen starting varsity football, especially in Florida. It is even rarer for said ninth grader to earn a starting spot. What Ryan Matulevich is doing for Cardinal Mooney this season goes steps beyond getting on the field and earning a varsity letter; he’s already an impact player.

Call it “the eye of the tiger” or what you will, Matulevich has an approach to the game that goes beyond his grade classification. The dedication to the game mixed with above the grain athletic talents has him leading the Cougars in receptions (41), receiving yards (559) and receiving touchdowns (8). Adding to his developing skills, the Sarasota area product has toted the rock 24 times for an additional 174 yards.

The productivity mixed with upside prompted Arkansas State to be the first to offer Matulevich. The Class of 2025 recruit shared the experience, “It felt really good. All the hard work had paid off. It was a really fun day.”

Matulevich gave details to how the Red Wolves dropped the offer, “Coach (Rob) Harley (defensive coordinator) offered me. We had a conversation on the phone. He told me we like what you are doing, and we’d love to offer you.”

The ASU offer may not be the only one on Matulevich’s offer sheet for long. Interest is coming in from Florida State, Oregon and Stanford. The Seminoles hosted the in-state receiver on Oct. 23 for the UMass game.

“I really liked the feel and the atmosphere at Florida State,” Matulevich said. “I had a fun time. I really like what they are doing.”

While in Tallahassee, time was spent with the FSU coaches, “I talked to a few coaches. We talked about my future and what I plan to do.”

The atmosphere at Doak Campbell made an impact, “I thought it was a really good atmosphere. The stadium was pretty much full; that was fun. With the chief during the pregame, that was fun to watch.”

Arkansas State may get a chance to host Matulevich on Nov. 6 at Centennial Bank Stadium when the Red Wolves welcome Appalachian State.