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The Aggies organized a high-profile recruiting weekend packed with elite 2027 talent, including Mark Matthews. Rivals rates Matthews as the No. 1 interior offensive lineman and the No. 2 prospect nationally. Texas A&M hopes to make a strong impression, but a severe winter storm across Texas could disrupt the plan.
Matthews is scheduled to visit College Station. But large sections of Texas are expected to get hit with dangerous ice, freezing temperatures, and bad road conditions. That means even confirmed travel plans could change fast.
Recruiting reporter Steve Wiltfong raised doubts about Matthews’ trip. “I question if he’s going to get there weather-wise, maybe [he] even visits Florida,” Wiltfong told Rivals on January 23.
The weather outlook is rough. Forecasts expect heavy ice, power-outage risks, and statewide travel warnings across Texas. College Station is projected to face freezing temps, ice buildup, and harsh wind chills. Meteorologists say up to three-quarters of the state could see unsafe driving conditions, with Central Texas dropping into the mid-teens.
According to the National Weather Service, the coldest stretch should arrive late Sunday night, with temperatures possibly hitting 14 degrees. Rain should taper off Saturday, but ice and extreme cold could last into Monday. Officials are urging people not to travel during this window for safety reasons.
Texas Tech, Tennessee, and North Carolina already adjusted their recruiting schedules because of similar conditions.
Mark Matthews is considered a unique prospect. He only started playing football as a freshman and moved to the offensive line last year after starting on defense. Now 6-foot-6 and 280 pounds, he has left tackle traits, quick movement, and long-term pass protection upside.
Florida also has a chance to jump in this race at the perfect moment. The Gators are planning a big Junior Day event in Gainesville, and On3 reports Matthews could show up. He lives in Florida, and travel would be easier if Texas roads shut down.
He also knows new O-line coach Phil Trautwein. While he doesn’t have a bond yet with head coach Jon Sumrall, that could change quickly. Dropping by Gainesville this weekend would make sense if the trip to Texas becomes risky.
Mark Matthews admitted Florida slipped a bit earlier in the cycle. He added that recent coaching changes helped, saying “the head coach is reaching out to me. That means a lot and shows I’m a priority for them.”
He has not set a visit date, but he told On3 he will definitely be at Florida before making his final decision in the summer.
Meanwhile, Miami is viewed as the quiet favorite. Recruiting analysts see the Hurricanes as the current frontrunner, and industry projections give them a strong lead. Matthews is also the top-ranked player in Florida, which helps Miami’s case.
Miami also has momentum with elite 2027 talent like edge rusher David Jacobs out of Georgia. The Hurricanes are selling NFL development and early opportunity after finishing the 2026 class inside the top 10.
For Texas A&M, the stakes are huge. Elko still doesn’t have a five-star commitment. Big weekends like this are designed to change that. But Mother Nature might delay his best shot.
If Mark Matthews cannot travel to College Station this weekend, the entire recruitment could shift. A simple weather delay may be all Florida or Miami need to take control heading into the summer.
FAQ:
Who is Mark Matthews?
Mark Matthews is a five-star recruit in the 2027 class. Rivals ranks him as the No. 1 interior offensive lineman and the No. 2 overall player in the country.
What weather issues are affecting his visit to Texas A&M?
A winter storm is expected to bring ice, freezing temperatures, and dangerous road conditions across large parts of Texas. This could delay travel and make the visit uncertain.
Could the weather change his recruiting plans?
Yes. Because of the storm, there’s a chance Matthews stays in Florida and makes a visit to Gainesville instead of traveling to College Station.
What is Florida doing in his recruitment?
Florida is hosting a Junior Day event and already connected Matthews with offensive line coach Phil Trautwein. Matthews is also a Florida native, which makes Gainesville an easier trip.
Is Miami seen as the favorite right now?
Industry projections give Miami an early edge. The Hurricanes have been aggressive on the recruiting trail and are selling NFL development and playing opportunity.
Has Matthews set a timeline for his decision?
Matthews expects to visit Florida before making his final decision in the summer, but no exact commitment date has been announced.
Why is this weekend important for Texas A&M?
Mike Elko is still looking for his first five-star commitment at Texas A&M. Getting Matthews on campus would help build momentum toward that goal.
