The question about Oklahoma’s starting quarterback for next Saturday’s showdown against the Texas Longhorns got a crystal-clear answer from head coach Brent Venables on Wednesday night. Despite speculation and recent struggles, Venables stated it plain: “John’s our starting quarterback.” That means John Mateer is still the guy under center, even with all the noise.
Mateer’s Rollercoaster Ride Continues Into the Red River Rivalry
Let’s be real, Mateer’s play this season has been a rollercoaster, especially those three turnovers against the Georgia Bulldogs. That performance definitely had Oklahoma’s decision-makers considering a change, yet they still opted to roll with Mateer in the second half of that loss in Athens. So, while Venables might be sticking with his guy now, the thought of a switch was clearly on the table. The backups, Whitt Newbauer and Bowe Bentley, have been getting some work in practice. Mateer and Newbauer have been splitting a majority of the “good” reps, with Bentley only snagging about 20% of those. When reporters asked Venables if either backup would see play against Texas, he simply said, “I have no idea. We’re not there right now.” It’s a tightrope walk for sure.
Can Mateer Silence the Doubters Against a Brutal Texas Defense?
Here’s the kicker, though: Mateer hasn’t been *all* bad. He’s completed more than 75% of his passes over the last couple of games, which is a significant bounce-back from the Georgia game. He’s also currently sitting ninth in the SEC in passing yards and is tied for fourth in passing touchdowns alongside Ole Miss’ Trinidad Chambless, Alabama’s Keelon Russell, and Kentucky’s Kenny Minchey. Those are not numbers to ignore, even with the turnovers. Now, he gets his chance to truly turn the Oklahoma offense around. But it’s not going to be easy. He’s up against a Texas defense that has been absolutely stifling, allowing just 13.3 points per game in 2026. This isn’t just another game, it’s a statement for Mateer.
Next Saturday, Mateer leads his Sooners into the Cotton Bowl against the Longhorns. This game is huge for Oklahoma, and frankly, it’s huge for Mateer’s season. Can he deliver against that tough Texas defense and prove Venables’ trust wasn’t misplaced? We’re all watching to see if he can make good on that confidence.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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