OU football QB John Mateer willed the Sooners to victory. It wasn't pretty, but the Sooners' belief in their leader never wavered.

Oklahoma and John Mateer survived a shaky game to likely punch the Sooners ticket to the College Football Playoff.

The pressure on Oklahoma Coach Brent Venables reached a critical level after the Sooners finished 6-7 last season.

John Mateer carried himself with perseverance and embodied the 2025 Sooners’ “Hard to Kill” mantra in a 17-13 win over Louisiana State University.

Mateer is an exceptional athlete with rare toughness. His ability to extend plays, escape pressure, and throw accurately while on the run makes him a constant headache for opposing defenses. Oklahoma trusts him in the biggest moments because he thrives when the pocket collapses, his composure never wavers.

OU football quarterback John Mateer said Monday night he hasn't given any thought to his future after this season.

On third-and-6 on the Sooners' own 46-yard line, OU quarterback John Mateer's pass was deflected by Patrick Payton and intercepted by Harold Perkins Jr., who almost scored, but was stopped at the four-yard line. On the first play of the Tigers' drive, Sooners safety Peyton Bowen picked off Michael Van Buren Jr.