Temple sophomore LB Tyler Matakevich was named today to the 2013 College Football Performance Awards Linebacker Watch List.

“Congratulations to Tyler Matakevich on earning a spot on the 2013 CFPA Defensive Awards Watch List,” CFPA Executive Director Brad Smith said. “Under head coach Matt Rhule, Matakevich will be one of the nation’s top linebackers to watch in 2013.”

Matakevich had a breakout season last year as a true freshman, as he was later named Big East Rookie of the Year. The Stratford, Conn. native was also named to the 2012 Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-American Team. Matakevich played in every game last season for the Owls (starting in eight), and became the first freshman in school history to record 100 tackles.