Here’s a bombshell for Oklahoma Sooners fans: Brent Venables has no clear timeline for John Mateer’s return, leaving the team’s quarterback situation shrouded in mystery. But here’s where it gets controversial—is OU intentionally keeping quiet to maintain a strategic edge, or are they genuinely in the dark about Mateer’s recovery? Let’s dive in.
On Monday, Sooners head coach Brent Venables offered little insight into Mateer’s status, following the quarterback’s absence in Saturday’s game against Kent State. Mateer, who underwent hand surgery during the bye week, remains on an indefinite recovery timeline. When pressed about Mateer’s availability for the upcoming Texas game, Venables simply stated, ‘I don’t know when John Mateer will be back. It’s really not even anything to talk about. He’s progressing through however long it takes for those injuries to heal.’
And this is the part most people miss—OU’s tight-lipped approach isn’t just about Mateer’s health. By practicing indoors and keeping quarterbacks away from local media, the Sooners are playing their cards close to the vest. The first official availability report won’t drop until Wednesday at 7:10 p.m. CT, leaving fans and analysts guessing.
In Mateer’s absence, Michael Hawkins Jr. stepped up, delivering a solid performance against Kent State. Hawkins completed 14 of 24 passes for 162 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 33 yards and a score. If Mateer remains sidelined, Hawkins will make his second consecutive start in the Cotton Bowl—a stark contrast to last year’s 34-3 loss to Texas. Venables expressed confidence in Hawkins, emphasizing the team’s focus on controlling what they can: ball security, execution, and teamwork.
Here’s the controversial question: Is OU’s silence a tactical move to keep Texas guessing, or a sign of uncertainty about their quarterback depth? Venables’ comments suggest a mix of both—while he’s confident in Hawkins, the lack of clarity around Mateer’s return raises eyebrows. After all, in college football, information is power.
What do you think? Is OU’s strategy smart, or are they risking overconfidence in Hawkins? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
