Furman University

Furman:  Could push for playing time this fall...has continued to gain confidence following serious knee injury sustained in 2009...began his Furman career as a wide receiver before moving to safety.  2010 — Returned from injury to register playing time in all 11 games as a member of special teams...also saw limited action as a reserve free safety...notched a tackle in seven games.  2009 — Sustained a season ending knee injury in season opener versus Presbyterian (45-21 win)...granted a medical redshirt and extra year of eligibility.  2008 — Began his inaugural season as a redshirt candidate at wide receiver but got the call for action following a season ending knee injury to R.J. Webb...ended up seeing action in 10 games...caught five passes for 31 yards...collected a pair of receptions for 14 yards against Samford (28-27 win)...added four tackles on special teams...had one kickoff covering 56 yards versus 6th-ranked Delaware (23-21 win).

High School:  2008 graduate of Briarwood Christian (5A) School...football coach was Fred Yancey...played wide receiver, safety, and also saw duty as a placekicker and kick return specialist...2007 Alabama Sportswriters Association first team all-state pick as a wide receiver...totaled 1,300 yards in receptions, 20 touchdown receptions, 150 tackles, and eight interceptions — five of which he returned for touchdowns — and seven field goals in two seasons of play at Briarwood Christian...as a senior caught 37 passes for 1,107 yards and 18 touchdowns in helping his squad to a 14-1 season and state runner-up finish...also tallied 55 tackles and two interceptions.

Personal:  Full name is Matthew Morris Gordon...son of Pat and Ovida Gordon...born August 22, 1989, in Birmingham, Alabama...has a brother, Patrick, and sister, Rebecca...business administration major.