Oklahoma's Mateer upgraded to probable for matchup vs. Texas

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer was upgraded to probable on the SEC's availability report Thursday and is on track to play in Saturday's rivalry game against Texas.

Mateer's status was in question earlier this week after he underwent hand surgery on Sept. 23 and missed last Saturday's 44-0 victory over Kent State. He reportedly sustained the injury in the first quarter of Oklahoma's win over Auburn on Sept. 20 but played the entire game.

The 21-year-old returned to practice earlier this week in hopes of making a push to return this weekend, Thamel adds. The Sooners are reportedly expected to closely monitor Mateer's pain level and ability to grip the football in the lead-up to Saturday's contest.

Head coach Brent Venables was pessimistic about Mateer's availability on Monday, saying that he assumed the young passer wouldn't be available. Oklahoma listed Mateer as questionable on the first availability report Wednesday.

Mateer emerged as an early front-runner for the Heisman Trophy for the 2025 campaign, passing for 1,215 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions, with a 149.5 quarterback rating through four games. The Washington State transfer also rushed for 190 yards and five scores to establish himself as a legitimate dual threat.

Michael Hawkins Jr. started in place of Mateer in Oklahoma's victory over Kent State, completing 14 of 24 passes for 162 yards and three scores.