Joe Matheson serves as UWRF's offensive coordinator and joined the staff in 2019. He also leads the Falcon wide receivers.
Matheson has been an instrumental figure in the resurgence of Falcon Football since taking over as the offensive coordinator in 2020. In his tenure, Matheson has crafted one of the most explosive and dynamic offenses in the NCAA Division III, breaking numerous school and conference records. Under Matheson's leadership, the Falcons have ranked first in the WIAC in scoring offense and total offense across multiple seasons (2021-2024). The 2021 season was a historic milestone, with the Falcons achieving a 9-2 record, tied for the most wins in program history, and securing the team’s first bowl victory in the inaugural Isthmus Bowl. That season also saw the Falcons lead the NCAA in first downs (29.9 per game) and finish second nationally in total offense (544.3 yards per game). The team set records for scoring (477 points), total offense (544.3 yards/game), passing touchdowns (31), completions in a game (44), and points in a game (75).
Matheson's offense is known for its high tempo, averaging 19.7 seconds per play—the fastest offense at any level of the NCAA from 2021-2023. His innovative schemes and coaching excellence earned him the 2021 Hansen Ratings Region 6 Offensive Coordinator of the Year honor, and he was part of the 2021 WIAC Coaching Staff of the Year.
He has coached numerous All-WIAC selections, including standout tight end Ben Beise, who earned AFCA First Team All-America honors in 2021—the first Falcon to achieve this recognition since 1999. His recruitment efforts have transformed the program, moving from a 2-8 record in 2019 to consistent contention at the top of the WIAC.
Before joining UWRF, Matheson worked at Southwest Minnesota State from 2016-17, coaching the tight ends, including an All-NSIC performer, as a part of their spread tempo system. Matheson also served as an offensive student assistant at the University of Minnesota from 2012-16 under head coach Jerry Kill. During that time period, the program progressed from three wins in 2011 to four straight bowl appearances.
Matheson holds a Bachelor of Science in Business, with majors in Marketing and Entrepreneurial Management, from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management, and an MBA with a marketing emphasis from Southwest Minnesota State University.
Off the field, Matheson is a sought-after clinic speaker, sharing his expertise at venues like the AFCA, Glazier Clinics, and various coaching networks. His comprehensive approach to player development, recruiting, and offensive innovation continues to make him a cornerstone of the Falcons’ success.
