Coaching Decision Looms as Oklahoma Prepares for Red River Rivalry

Following a significant loss to No. 2 Georgia, Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables revealed discussions about potentially benching quarterback John Mateer. This conversation took place after the team’s 41-13 defeat on September 26. Throughout the season, Oklahoma’s offense has struggled, marred by inconsistency except for a dominant 51-0 win against UTEP in the season opener.

In subsequent games against Michigan, New Mexico, and Georgia, Oklahoma scored just 37 points collectively. The team, which began the season with a No. 10 ranking, suffered defeats to both Michigan and Georgia. The Sooners are now focused on recovery as they face No. 1 Texas in the “Red River Rivalry” at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas. This rivalry is known for victories by underdog teams, adding an element of unpredictability to the matchup.

Brent Venables confirmed to reporters that John Mateer remains the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against Texas. However, he mentioned that backup quarterbacks Whitt Newbauer and Bowe Bentley received substantial practice time during the previous week. When questioned if either Newbauer or Bentley might see playing time, Venables expressed uncertainty, indicating the decision would hinge on ongoing evaluations.

“We’ve got great belief in them, trust in them,” Venables said. “There’s a body of work that both Bowe and Whitt have put out there for us to evaluate. They’re doing a nice job, they’re working hard, improving incrementally and doing all the things that we want our quarterback to do as a whole, as a group.”

John Mateer has accumulated 883 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions over the first four games. In 2024, during a standout season at Washington State, he recorded 3,139 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Last season, Mateer’s performance was hindered by a broken bone in his hand, yet he still managed 2,885 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.