The injury came at a tough time for Michigan State. The Spartans were already missing Jordan Hall, who was ejected for targeting earlier in the game. Matthews had stepped in as the “green dot” linebacker, handling communication with coaches, before his own injury ended his night.
Wayne Matthews Injury Update from the Game
Matthews was hurt with 42 seconds left in the first half on an option play by USC running back Waymond Jordan. He stayed down on the field as medical staff rushed to him. Trainers called for a backboard and ambulance.
The Fox broadcast reported that Matthews was moving his arms and legs after the hit. Michigan State staff also confirmed that his motor skills were intact. He was strapped onto a board and lifted onto the cart while teammates looked on. Matthews raised his thumb, giving fans and players a sign of reassurance before leaving the field.
He was taken to LA General Hospital, a Level 1 trauma facility close to the Coliseum. The program later shared that his condition was being monitored by doctors. According to reports from Detroit Free Press, the injury was serious enough to remove his jersey on the field before transport.
Impact on Michigan State Football
Michigan State entered the game already shorthanded. With Hall ejected, Matthews was forced into the lead defensive role. His loss left the Spartans scrambling to adjust again on defense.
Other injuries piled up for Michigan State during the game. Defensive linemen Quindarius Dunnigan and Nikai Martinez both exited after colliding on the play before Matthews’ injury. Starting left tackle Stanton Ramil was also forced out in the first half.
Earlier in the season, star wide receiver Nick Marsh and running back Makhi Frazier had taken knocks but were active against USC. Guard Luka Vincic, however, has already been ruled out for the year. The long list of injuries has created extra challenges for head coach Jonathan Smith and his staff.
Michigan State had struggled the previous week in a closer-than-expected win over Youngstown State. Depth issues forced starters to play extended snaps then, which may be taking a toll now.
Wayne Matthews injury update remains the main concern. His condition at LA General will be monitored closely. The Spartans now face both short-term roster gaps and long-term questions about defensive depth.
FYI (keeping you in the loop)-
Q1: What happened to Wayne Matthews?He was injured late in the first half against USC while making a tackle. Trainers carted him off and took him to LA General Hospital.
Q2: Was Wayne Matthews moving after the hit?Yes, he was moving his arms and legs. He gave a thumbs up before being taken off the field.
Q3: Where is Wayne Matthews now?He was transported to LA General Hospital, a Level 1 trauma facility near the Coliseum. Doctors are monitoring him.
Q4: Who else was injured for Michigan State?Jordan Hall was ejected for targeting. Quindarius Dunnigan, Nikai Martinez, and Stanton Ramil also left the game with injuries.
Q5: Why is this injury so important?Matthews was calling plays on defense after Hall’s ejection. Losing him created a major gap for the Spartans’ defense.
