GBK’s Video Podcast - Parents Perspective: The Maturation of Cadet-Athlete Collin Matteson
This past Saturday, the Black Knights took down the Kansas State Wildcats on the road, 24-21.
Many would consider that particular win to be one of, if not the most significant win that Jeff Monken has been part of as the Head Coach at West Point.
“To win here, against that team, coming off of what we did a week ago … it’s joy, relieve and there’s a lot of emotions for sure,” declared Monken in his post -game (vs. Kansas State) press conference.
But if you are an Army fan, or a fan in general … watching the game took you to final possession by the Wildcats that was interrupted by senior safety Collin Matteson that closed out Army’s come from behind victory.
The Matteson Show
With 2:30 remaining in the Army-Kansas State game, this was crunch time and the time for the Army defense to show up and show off.
Safety Matteson did just that. On 1st & 10 at the Wildcats’ 38 yard line, he made an exceptional hit that caused what appeared to be a fumble, but after further review it was called an incomplete pass. Two plays later, he broke up another pass and this was followed by an interception.
It was two weekends ago that the senior started for the first time Army, as he took his rightful place in the starting lineup, wearing the Black & Gold and then this past Saturday, his performance netted him Defensive Player Of The Week for the American Athletic Conference.
Matteson entered direct from Oklahoma Christian School, Edmond OK in 2022 and did not see playing time as a plebe. He appeared in one game vs Syracuse in 2023.
He played in all 14 games with 101 snaps in 2024, and was credited with 15 total tackle, 1 Pass Defended and a 41 yard return of an interception.
As mentioned, he moved into the starting lineup this year and has recorded 13 tackles, including .5 TFLs. He has 5 passes defended to go along with his big INT against Kansas State.
GBK Analysis:
Collin came in as a direct safety. He showed good angles to the ball carrier and exceptional body control which is essential in order to tackle well. His ball skills improved each year as well as his understanding of the defense. This year he replaced Max Didomenico, a highly productive safety for the Black Knights and he’s done a great job.
However, as noted in every previous GBK Parents’ Perspective Video segment … these young men’s journey as cadet-athletes can be traced make to dads and/or mothers who have been an embellishing influence along the way.
Which bring us to John & Amy Matteson, parents of Collin. GoBlackKnights.com‘s Football Analyst and Podcast Host Joe Iacono had the opportunity to catch up with John for a look inside the journey.
**To chat with other Army fans about this article and more, please visit The 12th Knight message board**
• WATCH the latest videos from GoBlackKnights.com and subscribe to our YouTube channel
