Mateer laments Michigan showing: 'My eyes weren't great'

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 12: John Mateer #10 of the Oklahoma Sooners throws a first half pass around Enow Etta #17 of the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on September 12, 2026 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Gregory Shamus / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer took the blame for his team's 17-10 loss to Michigan on Saturday afternoon.

"I think my eyes weren't great," Mateer said postgame, according to On3's Thomas Goldkamp. "We'll go back and watch it. But I missed a lot of throws that I normally don't miss. Figure out the reason."

Mateer finished the contest completing 17-of-33 passes for 189 yards with one touchdown and one pick. The interception came midway through the fourth quarter, when Mateer underthrew wide receiver Trell Harris on a dig route.

Michigan defensive back Jyaire Hill stepped in front of the throw for the pick and returned it to Oklahoma's six-yard line. The Wolverines ultimately scored the game-winning touchdown, as Mateer couldn't lead his team on a drive to tie the contest.

Mateer's minus-0.28 EPA/dropback against Michigan was his worst mark in a single game since taking over as Oklahoma's starter in 2025, according to TruMedia. He had multiple passes that sailed over his wide receiver's hands.

"Typically, just me historically, if I'm fading back it'll sail a little bit," Mateer added. "But I'll watch it. I'll figure it out."

Oklahoma's offense posted just 289 yards and converted only three of its 13 third-down attempts. Mateer was ultimately the team's leading rusher in the game with 45 yards, and the club averaged just 3.4 yards per carry on 29 attempts.

The 1-1 Sooners will look to bounce back against New Mexico in Week 3.

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