Red River Rivalry: Oklahoma, Texas players get into heated exchange ahead of kickoff

Tensions are running high at the Cotton Bowl ahead of kickoff. Oklahoma and Texas players got into a heated exchange as they both headed to the tunnel prior to the Red River Rivalry.

Saturday’s game is one of the most anticipated on the slate as the Sooners and Longhorns renew their rivalry. The Cotton Bowl also provides an electric atmosphere with a 50-50 split for both teams with the Texas State Fair as a backdrop.

Both teams sure appear fired up, as well, though it didn’t appear to be anything more than words being exchanged. Kickoff for this year’s Red River Rivalry game is set for 3:30 p.m. ET.

Tensions are high at the Cotton Bowl. pic.twitter.com/iFdx7T3fH9

— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) October 11, 2025

The biggest storyline for Saturday’s game was the health of John Mateer. The Oklahoma quarterback underwent hand surgery just over two weeks ago, but came off the SEC availability report and is set to play in Saturday’s rivalry game.

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.

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables confirmed Mateer would start Saturday’s game. The Washington State transfer also will have “no limitations,” the headman confirmed.

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 be in line to start. He started last year’s Red River Rivalry game, but struggled as Oklahoma scored just three points.

Brown pointed that out, as well, and said the offense is sure to look different if Mateer – who was the Heisman Trophy favorite when he went down – is able to play. But regardless of who’s under center, he said Texas needs to make sure to keep Oklahoma quiet out of the gate and avoid allowing a similar start that DJ Lagway had for Florida last game.