DL Walter Mathis breaks down his commitment to the LSU Tigers

Savannah (Ga.) Calvary Baptist Day three-star defensive lineman Walter Mathis Jr. took official visits to Clemson, Miami, Auburn and LSU in May and June. That last visit to Baton Rouge made a lasting impression.

The 6-foot-1.5, 285-pound recruit was on his second visit to LSU and that was all he needed to see. He has known his decision for some time, but he kept it to himself until his mother’s birthday on Aug. 31.

He’s now ready to let everyone else in on his decision.

“I wanted to surprise my mother,” Mathis told On3 about his commitment to LSU. “She didn’t know anything about it. It was a total surprise to her. It was a big day for me, but an even bigger day for her.”

Bo Davis was the leader in Mathis’ recruitment for the Tigers. Blake Baker played a role too, as did other staffers in Baton Rouge. The people at LSU played a big role in his decision.

“They made me feel wanted. LSU liked me as a person and a player. I got to know coach Davis, he has recruited me hard since he got to LSU and I like who he is. He is a guy who produces defensive linemen to the NFL.

“Coach Davis and the coaches at LSU made it known that they wanted me. They recruited me hard, I liked being on the visits and LSU is just a good place to be.”

Mathis is commitment No. 26 for LSU. They have the No. 3 recruiting class in the Team Rankings.

LSU is getting an ‘explosive’ player in Mathis

Mathis, who most down on the coast of Georgia know as “Buddy” received high praise from his head coach.

“Buddy is a very explosive player with an outstanding motor,” Calvary Day head coach Mark Stroud said. “He understands how to use his hands and identifies blocking schemes well. He also runs very well for a defensive line guy. Buddy is also an outstanding teammate and we are glad we don’t have to block him.”