The Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 season fell far short of their typical standards, particularly on offense. Now, with a new season approaching, fresh talent is breathing life back into Norman.
Quarterback John Mateer has reunited with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, and their partnership is already generating significant buzz.
Their chemistry is catching fans’ attention, and with Oklahoma’s SEC journey continuing, anticipation has reached new heights.
John Mateer Turning Heads as Oklahoma Rebuilds Under Ben Arbuckle
The conversation around Mateer and Arbuckle has substance behind it. The duo worked together at Washington State, where they earned considerable praise. Their proven connection now fuels hope that they can resurrect Oklahoma’s offense in their second SEC season.
Mateer has emerged as one of college football’s premier quarterbacks. Last season, he threw for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns while rushing for 826 yards. Those numbers came in a Washington State uniform, but he transferred to Oklahoma shortly after Arbuckle’s hiring.
In Arbuckle’s system, Mateer was exceptional. He completed 64.6% of his passes and ranked third nationally in yards per pass (9.6). Their chemistry clearly creates excitement.
During a recent Cover 3 Podcast episode, Bud Elliott observed, “Oklahoma turns to Washington State, they get John Mateer and they get Ben Arbuckle which is, I mean, nice to have an OC and quarterback who know each other, no doubt. Obviously he’s the guy.”
Josh Callaway agreed, adding, “Yeah, I mean so far A+ for John Mateer, in particular Ben Arbuckle too, but John Mateer in particular. He’s got the fan base fired up. He’s kind of the beacon of hope right now as far as the offense goes.”
New Oklahoma QB John Mateer has a really exciting skill set. Wicked off-platform ability, the arm talent to push it vertical, & the mobility to be a threat in the run game.
Mateer was one of two QBs in the country with 18+ big-time throws & 50+ forced missed tackles last season. pic.twitter.com/mtzYj4khKK— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) June 21, 2025
The hope extends beyond Mateer’s statistics. His leadership qualities stand out. From his arrival, he immersed himself in the program. Callaway noted that Mateer attended basketball games, built connections, and quickly earned teammates’ respect.
While basketball isn’t football, seeing him support other sports showed his commitment. “The way his teammates talk about him – it’s noticeable. It’s not stuff you heard last year about Jackson, frankly,” Callaway said.
The wide receiver room features fresh talent. Having a quarterback who already knows the playbook inside out helps tremendously. Callaway said, “Through the spring and to this point in the middle of May, John Mateer and Ben Arbuckle have checked every box to at least give fans hope.”
Mateer has been building chemistry with wide receivers Isaiah Sategna and JaVonnie Gibson. Both transfers bring talent and could become breakout performers.
Additionally, new general manager Jim Nagy brings NFL scouting expertise to help strengthen the roster. If these pieces come together effectively, with Mateer leading the charge, Oklahoma’s recent offensive struggles might finally end.
