The Oklahoma Sooners are placing their hopes on a new quarterback and offensive coordinator to turn around their struggling offense in the 2025 NCAAF season. John Mateer, a transfer from Washington State, and Ben Arbuckle, the young offensive mastermind, are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team.

The Dynamic Duo

John Mateer, who had a breakout season with Washington State, decided to follow Ben Arbuckle to Oklahoma after the latter was hired as the Sooners' offensive coordinator. Mateer's decision was influenced by the continuity and the successful partnership they had at Washington State, where they produced an average of 36.6 points per game.

A Critical Season

Oklahoma coach Brent Venables is betting big on this duo in what could be a make-or-break season for the Sooners. The team's first major test comes against No. 15 Michigan, a game that will be a true indicator of how quickly Mateer and Arbuckle can restore an offense that ranked 97th in scoring and 113th in total offense last year.

Historical Context

Last season, the Sooners struggled with injuries and inconsistent quarterback play, leading to a 6-7 finish in their SEC debut. Venables vowed to fix the offense, and landing Mateer and Arbuckle was a significant step in that direction. The duo's familiarity with each other and their aggressive, up-tempo system is expected to bring a new energy to the team.

The Road Ahead

Mateer and Arbuckle's first game together at Oklahoma was a promising start, with Mateer throwing for 392 yards, the most by an Oklahoma quarterback in a debut. The Sooners have also bolstered their offense with key transfers, including wide receivers and offensive linemen, to support Mateer and Arbuckle's system.

Conclusion

If the Sooners can replicate the success Mateer and Arbuckle had at Washington State, they could be on their way to a much-improved season. The duo's ability to restore confidence and rejuvenate the offense will be crucial as Oklahoma faces one of the toughest schedules in the nation.