Busy time for Mathis
Joe Mathis was committed to Washington early in his recruitment and he's been to the campus a couple times but it was another valuable trip this weekend for the four-star defensive end from Upland, Calif.
The 6-foot-4, 254-pound standout spent more time with the Washington players and that could play a big role as Mathis looks to make his decision at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
Advertisement
"The trip was really cool," Mathis said. "I got to hang out with a lot of recruits and I got to spend time with the players so it was nice.
"The atmosphere was cool. I've known Josh Shirley for a long time so we hung out. I've been up there a couple times so it was the same in some ways but I got to see a little more, too."
The Washington coaching staff wasn't pushy but made it clear to Mathis they'd love to have his commitment. However, another Pac-12 school has re-entered the picture to make his recruitment even more interesting.
Mathis, rated as the No. 11 strong-side defensive end and the No. 167 prospect in the 2013 class by Rivals.com, said USC has recently reached out. There is mutual interest since Mathis could take an official visit there as early as next weekend.
"[Washington] wanted me to commit, they were kind of pushing for it, but SC is back in it," Mathis said.
"They're recruiting me more and they're saying they really need me. I'm going to take an official. It might be next weekend."
Other programs including Texas A&M, Alabama, Hawaii and others could also receive official visits - Mathis has already been to Utah - but there is a time crunch.
The four-star is looking at USC next weekend, then he'll participate in the Cal State Game before leaving for the Army game later this month.