This season, the Red River Rivalry is shaping up to be one of the season’s biggest showdowns. The Longhorns are looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Florida, while the Sooners aim to stay undefeated. Although Brent Venables’ No.6 Oklahoma plays against Steve Sarkisian’s unranked Texas, there’s plenty at stake when it comes to conference standings. And the big question? Oklahoma’s starting QB, John Mateer, is still uncertain. The backup QB did step up and led a one-sided victory over Kent State. But that victory didn’t satisfy Venables, and that’s why he isn’t leaving anything to chance.

On Monday, OU insider Parker Thune reported talking with Sooners LB Kobie McKinzie after their 44-0 blowout of Kent State. Despite the one-sided win, McKinzie said Venables wasn’t impressed during the team’s leadership meeting. Several penalties and a lack of efficiency were the reasons. And that’s why ahead of the Texas game, the Sooners’ HC made his stance crystal clear. “He ripped us for winning 44-0 and said it wasn’t good enough,” revealed McKinzie. Simple domination isn’t enough. The expectation is excellence.

In Saturday’s game against Kent State, the Sooners racked up six penalties, costing 72 total yards. On top of that, they were only 7 out of 13 on third down conversions. Those issues need fixing before the Texas showdown, or Oklahoma’s 5-0 winning streak could be in jeopardy. Meanwhile, Texas enters at 3-2 but is still a 3.5-point favorite. That means Brent Venables’ squad won’t have an easy night. The Sooners are also not sure who will start at QB.

Initially, Venables had assumptions about Mateer’s return. But on Monday, he clarified the QB’s status. “I don’t know when John Mateer will be back,” said Venables. “Really, there’s nothing to talk about. He’s progressing at whatever pace it takes to heal from the injury.” Since the Auburn game, Mateer has been sidelined with a hand injury. That’s why against Kent State, Michael Hawkins Jr. took the reins and shined. He threw for 162 yards with 3 TDs. So there’s no need for panic if Mateer isn’t available.

But Mateer is ranked No. 5 in the nation with 303.75 passing YPG through 4 games. Hence, having him back would clearly give the Sooners a major edge. But it looks like despite the injury, Texas is still not leaving it up to chance. They are getting ready to face him, even if Mateer might not play.

Texas’ preparation to face Brent Venables’ squad

On Monday, Steve Sarkisian was asked about Oklahoma’s QB dilemma with the Red River Rivalry looming. Because everyone is eager to know. Will it be Michael Hawkins or John Mateer under center? Sark does not care for such speculations.

“We’ll plan for Mateer, you have to,” said Sarkisian. “He’s a dynamic player, he’s the heartbeat of that offense for sure, everything goes through him.” Even though Hawkins is taking snaps, Texas is well aware that Mateer remains the engine of OU’s offense when he’s healthy. Despite Brent Venables indicating that Mateer won’t be available, with his recovery expected to take three to four weeks, Texas is not going to stop preparing for the QB under center to ball out.

The reason? Hawkins showed he can handle the pressure. That’s why Sarkisian stressed preparation is key, saying, “(Offensive coordinator Ben) Arbuckle’s got a great scheme. We’ve got to prepare for the scheme. They attack you in a lot of ways.” It’s all about preparing for the full arsenal of the Sooners, whether Hawkins or Mateer takes the snap.