John Mateer on difference between him and Johnny Manziel: 'I'm going to church in the morning'

John Mateer noted one clear difference between himself and Johnny Manziel. Although the Oklahoma quarterback has drawn plenty of comparisons to the former Heisman winner and Texas A&M star on the field, he made sure people know that off it is a different story.

“I’m going to church in the morning,” Mateer joked per George Stoia of Sooner Scoop.

Mateer’s comments came after reporters questioned him over his nickname of “Money Mateer.” Manziel was well-known by the nickname of “Johnny Football” during his career, but “Money Manziel” was another one of his monikers.

Mateer looks well on his way to potentially having Heisman-worthy season much like Manziel did in 2012. The Sooners QB helped lead his team to a 24-17 victory against No. 22 Auburn on Saturday, including scoring the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter on a nine-yard run.

A transfer from Washington State, Mateer now has Oklahoma off to a 4-0 (1-0 SEC) start on the young season. He has thrown for 1,217 yards and six touchdowns with three interceptions, also rushing for 190 yards and five scores.

During his Heisman-winning season in 2012, Manziel threw for 3,706 yards and 26 touchdowns to nine interceptions. He also rushed for 1,410 yards and 21 touchdowns. A&M finished 11-2 on the season after beating none other than Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl.

However, Manziel’s career didn’t come without controversy. He infamously received a half-game suspension for allegedly selling autographs to fans ahead of the next season in 2013.

Manziel was eventually selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns but played only 14 games across two seasons with the team. Off the field issues ended up being the killer of his career as he battled substance abuse problems.

Even so, Manziel remains one of college football’s most fun players of all-time to watch despite his off-field problems. He’s certainly good company for Mateer to be in when comparing his football prowess in college.

So far, it looks like the Sooners QB could be on a season reminiscent of that from Manziel as he looks to lead OU on a deep postseason run. But he’s also his own person and made sure to get in a jab at the all-time great. Mateer will look to keep up his high level of play in two week when the Sooners next face Kent State.