Trojans in the NFL: Clay Matthews intercepts pass in Packers’ win

Every Monday we will recap notable performances of former USC players in the NFL.

Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews on Sunday gave NFL fans something to talk about other than his blond locks and growing beard.

The former USC and Agoura High linebacker intercepted a pass by Jay Cutler in the third quarter of the Packers’ 38-17 victory over the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

It was Matthews’ first interception this season, the fifth of his career.

Defensive back Tramon Williams deflected Cutler’s pass before Matthews caught the ball and returned it 40 yards. The Packers converted the turnover -- Cutler’s first interception of the season -- into a touchdown.

Matthews was questionable before the game because of a groin strain suffered in last Sunday’s defeat by the Detroit Lions.

Bye week, hello USC

The Seattle Seahawks had an open date, so Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith and teammate Mike Morgan made a trip to their old stamping grounds.

The former Trojans linebackers led USC out of the Coliseum tunnel and onto the field against Oregon State in custom-made jerseys: half Seahawks and half Trojans.

Former USC Coach Pete Carroll was introduced during halftime as a member of the school’s 2015 Athletics Hall of Fame class, but the Seahawks coach was not present. He is expected to attend the induction ceremony in May.

Joe McKnight suffers Achilles injury

Maybe it was too good of a week to be true for former USC tailback Joe McKnight.

Less than a week after his best performance in the NFL, the Kansas City Chief’s running back suffered a torn Achilles tendon in practice, the team announced.

McKnight had six receptions for 64 yards and two touchdowns in the Chiefs’ Week 3 victory over Miami.

McKnight will be sidelined the remainder of the season.

Questions about USC? Email me at LNThiry@gmail.com or tweet @LindseyThiry and I will answer questions in a weekly USC Now mailbag.