The Oklahoma Sooners are coming off their best offensive performance since joining the SEC, ahead of the 2024 season. The Sooners set a team-high as an SEC member with 467 yards of total offense. They also rushed for 184 yards, their best rushing performance of the season.
Quarterback John Mateer was excellent all game long. He completed 22-of-29 passes for 283 yards and two scores. He also rushed nine times for 37 yards. Most importantly, Mateer didn't put the football in harm's way. Turnovers have been a big issue for him this season, but he didn't turn it over once, despite being aggressive all day, as the Sooners hit several explosive plays.
That aggressive approach showed itself on a key third down late in the game. The Sooners were leading
23-15 and faced a third-and-11. Instead of running it to burn clock, Oklahoma elected to throw. Mateer rolled out and found Rocky Beers for the game-clinching first down. Mateer explained how he was able to be aggressive while also taking care of the football.
"There were some moments that, before I got the play call, it was like focus up here," Mateer said via SoonerScoop. "You don't want it to go super in the wrong way. Protect the ball. Going into that last third down when I rolled out and threw it to Rocky, before that play, I knew if it's not there, don't do anything extra. It's situational."
Mateer's decision-making against the Mississippi State Bulldogs was an encouraging sign for an Oklahoma offense that has needed both production and greater ball security. He stayed willing to attack downfield and make plays with his legs without forcing throws or risking the football. The late connection with Beers illustrated that balance, as Mateer recognized the importance of the situation and delivered when the Sooners needed to keep the clock moving and secure the win.
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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: John Mateer explains aggressive approach on key late-game conversion
