John Mateer, the Oklahoma quarterback, is currently recovering from hand surgery he underwent on September 24, 2025, after breaking his hand in a game against Auburn. Oklahoma coach Brent Venables has indicated that he is "assuming" Mateer will not be able to play in the upcoming Red River Rivalry game against Texas on October 11, 2025. No specific timeline for Mateer's return has been given, but his rehabilitation is expected to last between three weeks to a month. Mateer has been seen wearing a brace on his hand and has not participated in pregame warmups, though he was in uniform for a recent game. The coach expressed confidence in Michael Hawkins Jr. as the starting quarterback during Mateer's absence.
