John Mateer injury update: ESPN broadcast gives key news after Brent Venables confirms 'no limitations'

After coming off the SEC availability report, John Mateer will have “no limitations” during Saturday’s Red River Rivalry game between Oklahoma and Texas, according to Brent Venables. ESPN’s Holly Rowe also had more details on the Sooners QB’s health.

Rowe said on the broadcast that Mateer was able to go through warm-ups looking like his usual self, including a tight spiral. He will play the game with a wrap around his thumb, just under two weeks removed from surgery.

After his status was in question throughout the week, Venables said Mateer would be able to play his usual game plan on Saturday. He got the start on the first drive, which ended with a field goal. Rowe then added the Washington State transfer had a strong showing in warmups.

“We were able to watch John Mateer in his pregame warmup,” Rowe said. “He is wearing a Velcro tab around his wrist that gives the base of his thumb some extra support. But I can tell you this, his spiral was tight. I saw him go to the 50-yard line, throw deep into the end zone, tight spiral and I think he is doing a great job in pregame warmups.

“He did not seem to be in pain when he was taking snaps or making these throws. We’ll see how long he’s able to play in this game today.”

Mateer was the Heisman Trophy favorite at the time of his injury, completing 67.4% of his passes for 1,215 yards and six touchdowns through four games. He also added 190 rushing yards and five touchdowns.

Much was made about Oklahoma’s handling of John Mateer’s injury and keeping his status in question, which was perhaps a bit of gamesmanship. However, former Texas coach Mack Brown defended Venables’ approach and keeping the Longhorns in the dark prior to Saturday’s game.

“‘Lying’ is a strong word. … We used to call it, ‘situation ethics,’” Brown said on The Stampede podcast with Vince Young and Bob Ballou. “If it fit the situation, it was ethical, if you’re a coach during the week.

“It is definitely ethical. The more gray he can leave it, the more question marks you have as the opposing team.”

If Mateer was not able to suit up Saturday at the Cotton Bowl, Michael Hawkins would have been in line to start. He started last year’s Red River Rivalry game, but struggled as Oklahoma scored just three points.