Buccaneer offensive lineman earns third team honor

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Aug. 11, 2022) – ETSU junior offensive lineman Tavon Matthews (Woodbridge, Va.) was named Preseason All-American by HERO Sports as the media publication announced its honors on Thursday.

Matthews, a Southern Conference preseason first team selection, started in 12 games for the Buccaneers during their 2021 campaign where ETSU finished 11-2, won the conference championship and reached the quarterfinals of the FCS Playoffs.

The Woodbridge, Va. native aided in blocking for one of the most historic running performances in program history with 2,775 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns. Matthews blocked for ten 100+ yard rushing games, including six games over 200 yards on the ground. During his time in the ETSU starting lineup, the Bucs’ biggest output on the ground was 461 yards and six touchdowns against Western Carolina (Nov. 13), while Matthews helped block for five rushing touchdowns against The Citadel (Oct. 9).

Following the 2021 championship season, Matthews earned a spot on the HERO Sports FCS Sophomore All-American Team, and was also named to both the Coaches and Media Second Team All-SoCon.

The Bucs, who are in their second week of camp, open the 2022 season on Thursday, Sept. 1 against Mars Hill. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. inside Greene Stadium. To purchase season tickets, please call the ETSU ticket office at 423-439-3878 or visit ETSUTickets.com.

For more information on Buccaneer football soccer, visit ETSUBucs.com and click on the football tab.