LOS ANGELES — Linebacker Wayne Matthews III sustained a scary injury shortly before halftime of Michigan State’s 45-31 loss to No. 25 Southern California on Saturday night.

On a first-and-goal run from Michigan State’s own 9-yard line, Matthews attempted a tackle on USC running back Waymond Jordan and looked to have taken contact near his neck. Medical staff rushed to his aid, putting the senior linebacker on a backboard before carting him off to a waiting ambulance.

Matthews’ motor skills are intact and he was taken to Los Angeles General Medical Center, according to an MSU spokesperson.

As teammates huddled near him shortly after being placed on the medical cart, Matthews flashed a brief thumbs up. Medical staff held teammates back from Matthews as the cart took off.

Michigan State

See Full Page