Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has his starting quarterback in John Mateer, and he also has a specific plan for the position’s future. Following high praise for Mateer from offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, Venables laid out his strategy for developing talented freshman Michael Hawkins while carefully protecting his long-term eligibility, creating a balanced approach for the present and the future.
Why Does Offensive Coordinator Ben Arbuckle Call John Mateer ‘Special’?
Ben Arbuckle, who worked with John Mateer at Washington State before both came to Oklahoma, understands what makes the quarterback a unique talent. Arbuckle highlighted Mateer’s innate ability to navigate the field, which sets him apart.
An insider shared Arbuckle’s glowing assessment on Twitter: “He has such a great feel for the space out there on the field. It’s really instinctual. So he’s special.”
“He has such a great feel for the space out there on the field. It’s really instinctual. So he’s special.”
-Ben Arbuckle on John Mateer’s running ability. #Sooners
— Mason Young (@Mason_Young_0) September 9, 2025
This instinct for the game is crucial for Arbuckle’s offense, which requires a quarterback who can think on his feet. In situations where plays break down, the quarterback must be able to improvise and gain yards with his legs. Mateer fits perfectly into this system because his instincts help him scan defenses, allowing him to decide when to throw and when to run. This dual-threat ability gives the Oklahoma offense a significant advantage.
How Is Brent Venables Protecting Michael Hawkins’s Future?
While Mateer leads the offense, Brent Venables is not taking any chances with his quarterback depth. He has a detailed development plan for Michael Hawkins, with the goal of getting him ready to play without sacrificing a year of his college eligibility.
Another insider revealed Venables’ strategy through a tweet: “We’re preparing him every single day like he’s a guy that could play 70, 80 snaps… I’d hate to burn his year unnecessarily… We’re going to be very mindful of not burning his year.”
Brent Venables on his plan for Michael Hawkins: “We’re preparing him every single like he’s a guy that could play 70, 80 snaps… I’d hate to burn his year unnecessarily… We’re going to be very mindful of not burning his year.” #Sooners
— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) September 9, 2025
This quote demonstrates an innovative approach to player development. Hawkins is practicing like a starter, running drills with the first-team offense to gain a complete understanding of the system. However, Venables wants to preserve Hawkins’s redshirt status. Since college players have four years of eligibility, playing too many games this season would cost Hawkins an extra year of development. The coach is being strategic, ensuring Hawkins is ready to play significant snaps if an injury occurs but avoiding wasting his eligibility in low-leverage situations.
Venables also praised Mateer’s composure under pressure, a vital trait for a starting quarterback. “He’s just right here in this rare air,” the coach said, describing his quarterback’s ability to bounce back from mistakes.
The team’s veteran presence bolsters that stability. Oklahoma added experienced players through the transfer portal, and the senior offensive linemen are guiding younger players as they adjust to college football. This support system helps quarterbacks like Mateer and Hawkins develop effectively.
As the Sooners face a strict schedule, Venables’s quarterback plan ensures the team remains competitive. With Mateer leading the offense and Hawkins developing for the future, Oklahoma is prepared for immediate challenges and long-term success.