The Miami Hurricanes' trenches tradition and coaching allure top offensive tackle Mark Matthews, a five-star prospect, as he weighs his elite college options.
The Miami Hurricanes have quickly become an attractive destination for offensive linemen, whether it's transfer portal candidates or high school recruits. Coach Mario Cristobal, a former offensive tackle for the program, takes pride in winning matchups in the trenches.
The offensive line was among the best in the nation last season, providing high-quality protection for quarterback Carson Beck, four starters declaring for the upcoming NFL draft, and right tackle Francis Mauigoa projected to be a first-round selection.
The Hurricanes have a five-star incoming freshman in Jackson Cantwell and could land another high-caliber high school talent in Mark Matthews. He's ranked second in the nation, first among offensive tackles, and first from the state of Florida for the class of 2027, according to 247Sports Composite.
Five schools are drawing Matthews' interest, with three surging to the top, including the Hurricanes. Plus, there's the Georgia Bulldogs, Ohio State Buckeyes, Texas A&M Aggies, Oregon Ducks, and LSU Tigers.
Matthews currently attends St. Thomas Aquinas High School, a private Roman Catholic institution in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He's a dual-threat athlete who has played football and basketball.
On the field, Matthews played on both sides. As an offensive tackle, he's recorded 28 pancake blocks. The five-star recruit spent more time on the defensive side, having 21 total tackles, six solos and 15 assists, two tackles for loss, one sack, three quarterback hurries, and one pass defended in 28 total games.
The Hurricanes are a successful destination for players from Broward County. They currently have star running back Mark Fletcher Jr., Jordan Lyle, Armondo Blount, OJ Frederique Jr., and Ahmad Moten Sr. on the roster who are from Fort Lauderdale. A couple of players listed came from the same high school as Matthews.
The five-star recruit has made a few unofficial visits with the Buckeyes, Aggies, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Florida Gators, Nebraska Cornhuskers, Florida State Seminoles, and the Hurricanes on three separate occasions. It could be an early indication as to which direction Matthews is leaning towards in the recruiting process.
Also, offensive line coach Alex Mirabal is likely to remain on the staff, despite a few departures, who's known as one of the best in college football.
The Hurricanes are known to desire great size within the offensive line. Matthews is listed at 6-5, 300 pounds. He would fit the philosophy of the program and develop into an outstanding prospect. Matthews has plenty of time to evaluate all options before coming down to a final decision and announcing a commitment.
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