Will John Mateer return to Oklahoma Football after CFP loss to Alabama? OU QB breaks silence on his future
Oklahoma QB John Mateer faces gambling probe
For John Mateer, the reality of wearing an Oklahoma Sooners jersey still hasn’t fully sunk in, even after starting a College Football Playoff game against Alabama. Twelve games into his first season as OU’s starting quarterback, Mateer remains both grounded and reflective as speculation grows about what comes next.
“I think sometimes I sit back and still see the logo on my chest,” Mateer said. “Oklahoma versus Alabama, and I just played in that game.”
Mateer’s comments came after No. 8 Oklahoma’s 34–24 loss to No. 9 Alabama in the CFP opener at Gaylord Family–Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, a game that showcased both his rapid development and the unanswered questions surrounding his future.
A Fast Rise From Transfer to CFP Starting Quarterback
A transfer from Washington State, the Little Elm, Texas native entered the season as a relatively unknown commodity nationally. Three months after undergoing hand surgery in September, a setback that threatened to derail his year, Mateer instead found himself leading OU onto the sport’s biggest stage.
Against Alabama, Mateer largely looked like the dynamic playmaker Oklahoma hoped for. He completed 26 of 41 passes for 307 yards and two touchdowns, adding another score on the ground. Importantly, it was the first game since surgery where he played without tape on his throwing hand.
“He came out ready to play,” offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle said. “He was seeing the field really well, executing at a high level, and playing fearless.”
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Momentum Shifts and a Costly Turning Point
Oklahoma surged to a 17–0 second-quarter lead, appearing in full control. But a pivotal third-and-3 at midfield shifted momentum. Mateer scrambled and appeared poised to run for the first down before spotting a wide-open receiver downfield. The pass fell incomplete.
On the next play, a botched punt led to a blocked kick, setting up an Alabama field goal and igniting a Crimson Tide comeback.
“You trust your instincts,” Mateer said. “I knew I could run it, but he’s running open. It’s unfortunate. It just didn’t work out.”
While the Sooners outgained Alabama 362–260 and ran 75 plays to Alabama’s 54, execution issues, particularly on special teams and in the run game, proved decisive.
Run Game Struggles Remain a Key Concern
Despite the offensive output, Oklahoma averaged just 1.7 yards per carry, a glaring weakness that head coach Brent Venables acknowledged must improve.
“We’ve got to get better at running the football,” Venables said.
Mateer believes continuity could be the solution. A potential second season under Arbuckle’s system could unlock more consistency and chemistry across the offense.
“Any second year, around college football, is typically more successful,” Mateer said.
Will John Mateer Return to OU or Enter the NFL Draft?
That question now looms large.
When asked directly about his future, whether he’ll return to Oklahoma or explore the NFL Draft, Mateer remained noncommittal.
“I haven’t really thought about it yet,” he said. “I’ll take some time, weigh all the options, and we’ll see.”
For Oklahoma, his decision could define the Sooners’ trajectory next season. For Mateer, it’s the next step in a career that has already exceeded expectations.
FAQ
Who is John Mateer?
John Mateer is the starting quarterback for the Oklahoma Sooners, a transfer from Washington State who led OU to the College Football Playoff in 2025.
Did John Mateer play in the College Football Playoff?
Yes. Mateer started in Oklahoma’s CFP opener against Alabama, throwing for 307 yards and accounting for three total touchdowns.
What were John Mateer’s stats vs Alabama?
He completed 26 of 41 passes for 307 yards, two passing touchdowns, and one rushing touchdown.
Is John Mateer entering the NFL Draft?
Mateer has not made a decision. He said he plans to weigh his options before choosing between returning to OU or entering the NFL Draft.
Did John Mateer have an injury this season?
Yes. He underwent hand surgery in September, but played the CFP game without tape for the first time since the procedure.
Why is John Mateer important to Oklahoma’s future?
As a dynamic dual-threat quarterback in his first year as a starter, Mateer represents offensive continuity and growth if he returns.
What needs to improve if Mateer returns?
Oklahoma’s run game and special teams remain key areas of focus heading into next season.
