John Mateer: A New Era for Oklahoma Football as Spring Practices Begin

As Oklahoma football enters its spring practices, a fresh face is leading the charge for the Sooners’ offense: John Mateer. The 6’4″ dual-threat quarterback, who transferred from Washington State after a standout 2024 season, is preparing to make his mark in the heart of the Big 12. His arrival has already created a buzz, with expectations high for what he can bring to an offense that is eager for a resurgence. As he gets ready for his first spring practice in Norman, Mateer has a clear sense of purpose and a mindset focused on leadership, growth, and teamwork.

A Look Back at Mateer’s Journey

Before arriving at Oklahoma, John Mateer was making waves at Washington State. In his first season as a starter in 2024, Mateer became one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in college football. He threw for over 3,100 yards, recorded 29 touchdowns, and added seven interceptions. Not only did he prove himself in the air, but Mateer also showcased his skills on the ground, rushing for 826 yards and 15 touchdowns. His 44 total touchdowns led the nation, signaling to scouts and fans alike that he was a player capable of taking over games in multiple ways.

Mateer’s decision to transfer to Oklahoma came after much consideration. The allure of playing in a more prominent program with an offense that could match his skillset was too strong to ignore. But it wasn’t just the program’s reputation that attracted him to Norman; it was the connection he had with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle. Arbuckle, who had previously coached Mateer at Washington State, played a pivotal role in Mateer’s decision to make the move. The quarterback was eager to reunite with a coach he trusted to help unlock his full potential.

Leadership and Expectations in Oklahoma

One of the first things that stood out to Oklahoma’s coaching staff was Mateer’s leadership. Head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Arbuckle have both praised the quarterback’s natural ability to command a huddle and handle the pressures that come with being the face of the offense. “John is a leader. He has the ability to bring out the best in his teammates,” Venables said when discussing the quarterback’s leadership qualities.

But it’s not just his leadership that has impressed those around him—Mateer’s football IQ and ability to read defenses have made him a valuable asset from the start. His arm strength and accuracy allow him to make all the necessary throws, while his vision and elusiveness make him a threat on the ground as well. Still, despite his success and talent, Mateer remains humble, never losing sight of what is required of him in this new chapter of his football career.

A Fresh Mindset Heading Into Spring Football

As Oklahoma prepares for its spring practices, Mateer’s mindset heading into the season is focused on growth, chemistry, and team success. In a recent interview, Mateer reflected on his approach as he steps into a new role at a new school. “It’s all about consistency and working to improve every day,” he explained. “You can’t get too caught up in the expectations or pressure. You have to keep your head down and focus on doing the work.”

Despite the attention that comes with being a high-profile transfer, Mateer’s approach is grounded. He’s quick to emphasize the importance of the team as a whole, highlighting that no individual success is possible without the collective effort of those around him. “I just feel like I have an obligation to give everything I have for my teammates,” Mateer said. “We all have to be on the same page, working toward the same goal.”

That humility and team-first mentality will likely serve Mateer well as he integrates himself into Oklahoma’s offensive system. The Sooners will need him to hit the ground running, particularly as they look to bounce back from a subpar 2024 season. With the offense being one of the areas that needs the most improvement, the hope is that Mateer’s skillset can elevate the entire group.

Developing Chemistry with Teammates

A key aspect of spring football is the development of chemistry between the quarterback and his receivers. For Mateer, building this connection is critical, especially with new teammates. He’s spent significant time working with the Sooners’ wide receivers and tight ends, getting a feel for their strengths and weaknesses and learning how to anticipate their movements on the field.

“The timing has to be perfect,” Mateer said, referring to his work with the receivers. “You have to know what they’re thinking and where they’ll be in each situation. That takes time and trust. We’ve had some great early work together, and I think that will continue to improve as we move forward.”

While spring practices are an essential part of that development, it’s clear that Mateer’s commitment to the process goes beyond just practices. He’s a student of the game, constantly watching film, reviewing his own performances, and learning from others. His leadership is rooted in a work ethic that drives everyone around him to strive for more.

What to Expect from Mateer and Oklahoma

Oklahoma fans are understandably excited about what Mateer can bring to the table. His dual-threat ability and experience as a proven playmaker give the Sooners offense a much-needed spark. With a more dynamic quarterback under center, the Sooners’ offense is expected to be more unpredictable and explosive.

In terms of expectations, it’s reasonable to expect Mateer to continue building on his success from Washington State while adapting to a new system at Oklahoma. The spring practices will give him an opportunity to further acclimate to the speed and style of Big 12 play, fine-tune his mechanics, and work on developing better rapport with his receiving corps.

While Mateer is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the offense, he is also aware of the importance of surrounding talent. Oklahoma’s offensive line will play a pivotal role in his success, and the skill players around him must also step up to complement his abilities. If everything comes together, Oklahoma’s offense could become one of the most potent in the country.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

As the Sooners work through their spring practices, all eyes will be on John Mateer to see how he adapts to his new team and prepares for the upcoming season. The expectations are clear—Oklahoma needs a strong leader at the quarterback position, and Mateer has the tools to be that player.

But despite the weight of those expectations, Mateer remains focused on the work at hand. He understands the road ahead will be challenging, but with a clear vision for success, he is ready to take on the responsibility. Whether it’s his leadership, his ability to make plays with his arm and legs, or his relentless work ethic, Mateer has the potential to be the player that helps lead Oklahoma back to prominence in the Big 12.

As the spring practices continue, one thing is certain: John Mateer is primed to be a key figure in the next chapter of Oklahoma football. With the right mindset, commitment to his teammates, and a desire to elevate the program, Mateer is poised to help take the Sooners back to the top.

The 2025 season may just be the start of a new era for Oklahoma football, and John Mateer could very well be the man to lead the charge.