Five-star tackle Mark Matthews weighs elite options, with the Miami Hurricanes, LSU Tigers, Texas A&M Aggies, and Georgia Bulldogs vying for his talent. A decision looms.
The Miami Hurricanes secured a five-star offensive tackle in Jackson Cantwell, but the program seeks to repeat its success with Mark Matthews. He currently attends St. Thomas Aquinas High School, a private, Catholic, college-preparatory institution located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The prospect recorded snaps on both sides of the field, playing offensive and defensive tackle. He’s recorded 28 pancake blocks and 21 total tackles.
It was reported on Saturday, April 4, that Matthews is down to four programs: LSU Tigers, Texas A&M Aggies, Georgia Bulldogs, and Hurricanes. The five-star recruit has an opportunity to stay close to home and display his talents in front of familiar faces.
Matthew is listed at 6-7, 305 pounds, ranked fifth nationally, first among offensive tackles, and first in the state of Florida for the class of 2027, according to Rivals Industry Rankings. He’s received interest and offers from numerous programs, including the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, South Florida Bulls, Ohio State Buckeyes, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Oregon Ducks, Oklahoma Sooners, Ole Miss Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Alabama Crimson Tide, SMU Mustangs, and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, along with several others.
The Hurricanes held several visits with the Florida native, including on Sunday, April 5.
The program has emerged as a desirable destination for offensive linemen, given the quality of value from coach Mario Cristobal.
Coming off a National Championship appearance, the Hurricanes built an identity around dominating matchups in the trenches. They relied on one of the best groups in the nation with left tackle Markel Bell, right guard Anez Cooper, center James Brockermeyer, and All-American right tackle Francis Mauigoa. Samson Okunlola and Matthew McCoy shared snaps at left guard; both are still on the roster for next season and looking to take on expanded roles.
As Matthews reaches a decision, the Hurricanes could have the edge en route to the finish line. He’s been recruited by offensive line coach Alex Mirabal on behalf of the program, who’s regarded as one of the top assistants in the nation. After officially developing an All-American in Mauigoa, the latest track record could lure the five-star recruit to join.
As the program seeks to remain in contention, part of the process to rebuild was recruiting and developing in-house talent. Despite the early struggles, players such as edge rusher All-American Rueben Bain Jr. and star running back Mark Fletcher Jr., along with several others, reached the light at the end of the tunnel. They will leave Hurricanes football in stronger conditions, which can attract top recruits such as Matthew.
A decision is now looming.
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