ESU’s Matt Soltes Continues to Impress

by Joe Fontanazza
SC Staff Writer

The look of sheer terror from a freshman quarterback as he sees the ferocity of a blitzing linebacker is always comical, but ESU’s redshirt freshman Matt Soltes seems to lack the gene that cultivates cowardice.

Last week’s PSAC East offensive player and Warrior of the Week looks as calm behind center as a Buddhist monk mediating. The former Star Ledger Fab 50 honoree has so far proved that he is worthy of his lineage (his father, Andy Soltes, was a letterman Quarterback at ESU during the 1982 Season).

Soltes is proficient throwing in the pocket but can also use his athleticism to run for yards or buy more time for his receivers to get open downfield. These combinations of skills give him similar attributes to Green Bay Packers Quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, who for his known ability to get out of the pocket and throw for long gains.

Soltes has so far amassed 1074 passing yards, 260 rushing yards, six total touchdowns and an impressive 60% completion percentage. Including an outstanding game in a defeat versus Clarion where he produced over 200 yards passing and 100 yards rushing. He also compiled a very respectable 167 passing yards, 66 rushing yards and one touchdown against a formable Bloomsburg defense on Saturday.

His performance was highlighted by a 13 yard touchdown pass to bring the Warriors back into striking range before the undefeated Huskies widened the lead.

It is going to be interesting to watch Soltes progress after such a splendid debut.

Email Joe at:
jfontanazza24@yahoo.com