Oklahoma Backs John Mateer at Quarterback

Arbuckle stands by his quarterback

Oklahoma offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle is sticking with John Mateer despite recent consistency issues. The Sooners sit at 3-3 overall and 1-2 in SEC play, but the coaching staff believes Mateer remains the best choice at quarterback.

Arbuckle is in his fourth year working with Mateer. The two were together at Washington State in 2024, where Mateer accounted for 44 touchdowns, before moving to Oklahoma and reaching the College Football Playoff last season.

"Everything that he's done, the player that he is, the preparation that he has, we believe that John Mateer gives us the best chance to win," Arbuckle said Tuesday.

Turnover issues and injuries

Turnovers have been a problem for Oklahoma this season. Mateer is responsible for nine of the team's 14 turnovers, including seven interceptions. Overall, he has completed 114 of 175 passes for 1,308 yards and nine touchdowns.

The quarterback has also played behind a damaged offensive line. Three regular starters missed the 21-13 home loss to No. 12 Kentucky. Ryan Fodje then suffered an ankle injury late in the third quarter and struggled to play through it.

Mateer matched his career high with three interceptions against Kentucky, with two coming in the final 16 minutes. Kentucky turned both picks into touchdowns. That game came right after Mateer played turnover free in a 27-24 upset over No. 1 Texas.

Coaches take responsibility

Arbuckle accepted responsibility for the play calling and mistakes on the field.

"Ultimately, I'm the one who calls the play out there," Arbuckle said. "Ultimately, I'm the one who designs it, and if something bad out there happens, I believe it falls back on me."

Head coach Brent Venables also saw positive signs despite the recent loss.

"I saw improvement," Venables said. "I thought he did a really good job most of the game, played well and gave us an opportunity to win. I thought he battled his butt off."

What it means for the next game

Oklahoma Sooners at Mississippi State Bulldogs (College Football, Sat, 24 Oct): Mississippi State Bulldogs win 38%, Oklahoma Sooners win 62%; projected score Mississippi State Bulldogs 21, Oklahoma Sooners 25. Our safest pick: Over 34.5 points.