After a slow start to the College Football playoffs, Texas Longhorns wide receiver Matthew Golden broke out in a big way in UT’s quarterfinals 38-31 2OT win. Against Arizona State, the Texas native was a reception machine. As the Longhorns inched closer to a national championship, Golden played a huge role.
On Wednesday night, Golden led Texas in receptions with seven and receiving yards with 149. He also averaged a team-high 21.3 yards per catch and found the end zone once. His latest big game was an encouraging sign for a Texas team that needed a spark.
In the first round against Clemson, Golden was held in check with two catches for 49 yards. During the regular season he had been one of the Longhorns most reliable playmakers. He led Texas in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. While the Tigers were able to limit his impact he quickly put that performance in the rearview mirror.
When the Longhorns needed a big catch, Golden came through with his only touchdown of the afternoon in overtime, which tied things up at 31. Like the rest of his teammates, Golden wasn’t ready for the season to end without a national title.
“None of us wanted to go home,” the Longhorns star said postgame to the media.
Following an unforgettable performance, Golden will shift his focus to the Longhorns’ next playoff game, in nine days against Ohio State. If he can have another huge night, the Longhorns’ offense should be in good hands and continue their playoff run.