What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer is reportedly aiming to return for the Red River Rivalry game against Texas on Saturday. Despite undergoing surgery on his throwing hand two weeks ago, Mateer is 'pushing' to play, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel. Mateer had surgery to repair a broken bone in his right hand on September 25 and was expected to miss about a month. However, he has only missed one game so far, a 44-0 victory over Kent State. Mateer, who transferred from Washington State, has been instrumental in Oklahoma's 5-0 start, throwing for 1,215 yards and rushing for 190 yards. His performance has positioned him as a top Heisman Trophy candidate.
Why It's Important?
Mateer's potential return is significant for Oklahoma as they face Texas, a team that has struggled this season with a 3-2 record. Texas quarterback Arch Manning, initially a Heisman favorite, has not met expectations, contributing to Texas's recent loss to Florida. Mateer's presence could bolster Oklahoma's chances in this crucial rivalry game, maintaining their undefeated record and enhancing their standing in the SEC. The game is pivotal for both teams, with Oklahoma seeking to continue their strong season and Texas aiming to recover from recent setbacks.
What's Next?
If Mateer is cleared to play, it will be a major boost for Oklahoma against Texas. Backup quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. performed well in Mateer's absence, but the competition level against Texas is significantly higher than Kent State. The decision on Mateer's participation will likely be made closer to game day, with implications for both teams' strategies and season trajectories.
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