The Oklahoma Sooners rolled past Kent State with a commanding 44-0 victory on Saturday, extending their 2025 season record to 5-0. Coming off their first bye week, the Sooners displayed little rust, dominating the Golden Flashes and keeping their perfect start intact.
With a challenging SEC slate ahead, including the Red River Rivalry against Texas, Oklahoma showcased both depth and readiness in its roster.
Michael Hawkins Jr. Affirms Readiness in John Mateer’s Absence, Earning Confidence from HC Brent Venables
Even with John Mateer still recovering from hand surgery, and with the head coach also stating “assuming he can’t” play in the next game, backup quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. is fully prepared to step in. Hawkins emphasized his respect for Mateer while also making it clear he is ready to lead if needed.
“John’s a great guy. Our relationship is really good and he’s a mentor to me. I kind of look up to him, and he helps me a lot when I have questions. He’s definitely a great guy to have in the room,” Hawkins said, underscoring the strong camaraderie and mentorship within the Oklahoma QB room.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables echoed confidence in Hawkins’ abilities, noting his prior experience against Texas last season and his readiness to execute the game plan.
“He had some experience playing in there last year. Really, the mindset is no different than it was going into today. We need to play well in the areas that we’re in control, taking care of the ball, making layups when they’re there, not trying to do too much. We’ve got to be the sum of all of our parts as a football team to complement one another. But I feel great about Mike,” Venables explained.
Mateer had been a standout early in the season, posting 1,215 passing yards, six touchdowns, and consistent rushing production before his injury sidelined him.
Against Kent State, Hawkins completed 14 of 24 passes for 162 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for an additional score, proving he can handle the pressure of leading the Sooners in Mateer’s absence.
With the Red River Shootout set for Saturday at Cotton Bowl Stadium on October 11, 2025, all eyes will be on the Sooners’ quarterback situation. OU enters the showdown ranked sixth nationally, unbeaten, and carrying momentum from dominant performances.
“Going down to Dallas next week for our second SEC game, it’s a big game like it always has been for 100 years. The emotion, intensity, and environment make it one of the coolest settings to play and compete in. This year will be no different. Our guys are looking forward to that challenge, and with the work and preparation, it’s going to take another week of focus for the challenges that Texas presents. I know our guys will be looking forward to it,” Venables said confidently to take on Texas.
Steve Sarkisian’s Texas, meanwhile, has struggled in 2025, including a 29-21 loss to Florida, leaving questions about the Longhorns’ readiness under quarterback Arch Manning.
Whether Mateer will be able to start remains uncertain, but if Hawkins takes the reins, he has already proven he can lead Oklahoma to victories in high-stakes situations. Fans can expect a competitive, high-energy matchup in Dallas, with the Sooners confident in whichever quarterback takes the field against their archrival.
