John Mateer Draws Top Gun Comparison: ‘He Pushes It’

One of the first coaches to offer Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer had no hesitation when asked to describe him.

“He oozes with confidence. It’s almost like a Top Gun Maverick-type character. He pushes it,” the coach said. That kind of presence has always been part of Mateer’s game, and it’s now part of what Oklahoma hopes will elevate its offense in 2025.

Mateer transferred to Oklahoma this offseason after a breakout year at Washington State. He passed for more than 3,100 yards and added over 800 on the ground, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. His arrival in Norman gives Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle a proven playmaker with a fearless edge.

That Maverick comparison says it all. Mateer is confident, aggressive, and entirely in control when he’s on the field. He’s not afraid to take shots or challenge defenses, and that confidence has already made an impression inside the Oklahoma program.

Coaches trust his command of the offense, and teammates have responded to his energy and approach.

There’s no question about his talent; The real intrigue is how far that leadership and edge can carry him in the SEC. Oklahoma is banking on Mateer not just filling a role, but setting a tone. If the early read is any indication, the Sooners might have found a quarterback with both the skills and the mentality to take this team to another level.

With fall camp around the corner, John Mateer isn’t easing into the job. He’s bringing full-speed confidence into a system built to let him take flight.