https://chargerswire.usatoday.com/2023/08/22/chargers-scott-matlock-training-camp-preseason/

Gavino Borquez
August 22, 2023 1:54 pm PT

Rookie defensive tackle Scott Matlock, the Chargers’ sixth-round pick,
has strung together a solid summer. He has stood out at training camp
and has made eye-popping plays in the first two preseason games.

In the first game against the Rams, Matlock flashed his pass-rush
skills, chasing down and pressuring quarterback Stetson Bennett, which
resulted in an incomplete pass.

In the most recent preseason contest against the Saints, Matlock made a
few notable plays, with the first being a tackle for loss. Later in the
game, New Orleans set up a screen for running back Ellis Merriweather
and Matlock used his range and effort to track him down in space.

“That screen play, you want to talk about a big-time play. He has been
solid,” head coach Brandon Staley said. “He has proven himself against
the 1s. He’s improving and he’s the right guy to be coaching.”

In addition to his athleticism and motor, Matlock has shown the desired
strength to take on single blocks and double teams to allow his
teammates to roam freely.

Defense isn’t the only department Matlock has made plays. He has been on
special teams, as well. While a penalty negated it, Matlock blocked a
field goal attempt this past Sunday. At Boise State, Matlock blocked
three kicks, one of which led to a touchdown return.

Matlock finished his college career with a total of 115 tackles (64
solo), 11.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries and one
force fumble.

With defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia still working his way back from his
season-ending injury in 2022, other members along the interior part of
the defensive line will have to step up during the regular season.
Matlock is showing that he could be one of them.