Nov. 24, 2008

Senior wide receiver John Matthews (Littleton, CO), recently added to the final Walter Payton Award watch list for the top FCS football player, was named the PFL player of the week for his performance in the team's 28-20 win over UC Davis. Matthews hauled in 13 receptions for 161 yards and 1 TD. With the Toreros holding a slim 21-20 lead late in the 4th quarter, Matthews caught 7 balls for 74 yards on USD's final scoring drive. Included in the final drive were two 4th-down receptions to keep the drive going, and the final touchdown of his illustrious career - a 10-yarder on a fade route. It marked the 14th straight game that he caught at least on touchdown, and the 4th straight game with double-digit receptions. Besides being up for consideration for the Walter Payton Award, he is a strong candidate for post-season All-America honors.

Spotlight on John Matthews: Turned in one of the top offensive performances this season.... With 13 receptions for 161 yards and 1 touchdown in his final collegiate game this past Saturday, a 28-20 win over UC Davis, Matthews closed out his record breaking career... This year he ranks #1 among all FCS receivers in total receptions (102), catches per game (9.27), total receiving yards (1,478), receiving yards per game (134.36) and receiving touchdowns (21)... All five of those marks are also new San Diego single season records... His 14 catches against Butler in game 10 was also a new Torero mark, and he leaves USD as the all-time leader in receiving touchdowns (50) and receiving yards (3,615), and 2nd in total receptions (195)... Among all active FCS players for career statistics, John currently ranks 1st in touchdowns (50), 3rd in receiving yards (3,615), 4th in yards per reception (18.5), 5th in receiving yards per game (80.3) and 6th in receptions (195)... For his 21 touchdowns this season, he is averaging 23.9 yards per TD catch. For his career he is averaging 35.6 yards per TD reception for his 50 catches that have gone for scores... His 50 career receiving touchdowns ranks second all-time in the FCS, matching Jerry Rice... He closed out his USD career with four straight games with double-digit receptions, and he caught at least one TD in his final 14 collegiate games.