In one of the more unexpected twists of this year’s recruiting cycle, four-star athlete Matt Sieg is headed to Morgantown. The former Penn State commit, who had recently reopened his recruitment following the firing of James Franklin, signed with West Virginia during a live ceremony on Early National Signing Day - a move that few saw coming.
Just a week ago, Sieg’s list of finalists included Indiana, Notre Dame, Penn State, Pitt, and Virginia Tech. Notably absent?
West Virginia. In fact, his previously scheduled visit to WVU on November 29 was reportedly canceled.
But in recruiting, things can change fast - and Sieg’s decision is proof of just how fluid the process can be.
Let’s break it down.
Sieg, the standout from Fort Cherry High School, had been committed to Penn State with the intention of playing under James Franklin. When Franklin was dismissed following Penn State’s loss to Northwestern in early October, Sieg’s recruitment was suddenly back in play. He publicly acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the program and expressed a desire to reevaluate his options - not shutting the door on Penn State, but clearly looking around.
“I love Penn State and am still open to being a Lion,” Sieg said at the time. “But with the uncertainty of the current situation, my family and I are trying to make sure we make the best decision for the future.”
That decision ultimately led him to West Virginia - a school that wasn’t even in the picture just days prior.
It’s worth noting that WVU had offered Sieg early in the process under Neal Brown’s staff, and he had visited Morgantown before committing to Penn State in November 2024. But after Franklin’s firing, Sieg revealed via social media that WVU had re-offered him. That second chance clearly resonated.
“Thankful to have been re-offered by West Virginia,” Sieg posted earlier this week.
The timing of the re-offer and the quick turnaround to signing day suggests that WVU made a strong late push - and won.
From a football perspective, this is a major get for the Mountaineers. Sieg is ranked as the No. 2 player in Pennsylvania, the No. 9 safety in the country, and the No. 79 overall prospect in his class, according to 247Sports. He’s a dynamic athlete who played quarterback in high school but is projected to make the move to safety at the college level.
Still, there’s intrigue about how WVU might use him. Sieg has expressed interest in playing offense, and the Mountaineers’ renewed pursuit may have included conversations about keeping that door open. That flexibility - and the chance to contribute on both sides of the ball - could have been a deciding factor.
Sieg’s high school resume speaks for itself. He’s shattered multiple WPIAL records, including the all-time mark for total yardage, which he set in October. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and versatility makes him one of the most exciting prospects in the region.
The recruitment of Sieg also highlights just how impactful coaching changes can be. Franklin’s departure didn’t just shake up Penn State’s sideline - it sent ripples through their recruiting class. Sieg’s decommitment was one of the most high-profile fallout moments, and West Virginia was ready to capitalize.
For the Mountaineers, this is a statement win on the recruiting trail. For Sieg, it’s a fresh start in a program that clearly believes in his potential - and might just give him the chance to shine on both sides of the ball.
One thing’s for sure: Morgantown just got a whole lot more interesting.