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Hit the Ground Running: How Clay Matthews Is Making a Case for ROY
Published: December 26, 2009
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Although a loss was the fate that Green Bay suffered this week at the hands of Pittsburgh, Clay Matthews flew in from Pennsylvania a very happy man. Oh, and believe me, his arms weren’t very tired.
From the East Coast to the North, former USC outside linebacker Clay Matthews has quickly made an impression on not only the hardcore fans in Green Bay, but also on analysts and sports writers alike. Coming off a fantastic week against the Steelers, where he continually rushed QB Ben Roethlisberger, Matthews left Heinz Field with a smile on his face as he recorded seven tackles and two sacks in the game.
Prior to the Pittsburgh game, Matthews wasn’t exactly struggling to post big numbers either. The most memorable game that I as a Packer fan can think of in relation to Matthews would be the Week Six onslaught of the Detroit Lions. Matthews’ numbers once again proved impressive, as he sacked QB Daunte Culpepper twice and made three tackles in an impressive 26-0 win.
Of course, many non-Packer fans may be thinking, “That’s only the Detroit Lions, what does that prove?” Allow me to continue. In the meaningful Monday Night Football game against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 13, Matthews quickly left an impression, or rather a dent in not only Joe Flacco but the entire Ravens offense.
Matthews numbers for the night were once again two sacks and six tackles along with a forced fumble on route to a Packers 27-14 win.
History wise, Clay matches up also. Before the Soldier Field matchup on Dec. 13 between the Packers and Bears, Matthews had tied former Packer legends Tim Harris and Vonnie Holiday for the most sacks in a rookie season. The record was soon overcome though, as the two sacks Clay had recorded in Pittsburgh were enough to give him the edge, and a place in the history books.
Clay has made a name for himself. Coached by one of the most passionate players to ever play the game, Kevin Greene, Matthews shows as much enthusiasm on the field as he does off. Always wanting to better himself and his team, Clay is already closely following the footsteps of his father and his grandfather and shows the characteristics that define a future star.
For what started out as a dismal year for the Packers and their fans, has already turned into a promising one. From 6-10 last season to a likely wild-card berth this year, things have come a long way. Numerous players are having outstanding seasons, and Clay Matthews is one of the top contributors on the Packers starting roster.
Green Bay Packers CB Charles Woodson is already leading the race for Defensive Player of the Year and is more than likely a shoe in to take the honours home at this stage. Maybe this season another Packer will be credited for his hard work. Clay Matthews. He damn sure deserves it.
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