Temple frosh rewarded as All-American

So what do Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel and Temple’s Tyler Matakevich have in common?

Both have been named to Freshman All-America first team, a distinction held by only one

former Owl.

The 20-year-old finished the season with 101 tackles and 67 solo stops, earning him Big East Rookie of the Year. He became the only Temple first-team selection besides Dan Klecko (1999).

“This is truly an amazing feeling,” said Matakevich, from his Stamford, Conn., home. “It is such an honor to be recognized among the great names of the Temple football tradition. I can’t wait to get back to school and get back on the football field.”

Matakevich is one of 15 true freshmen selected to the 30-player team, coached by Urban Meyer of

unbeaten Ohio State.