OU-Illinois State recap: John Mateer throws multiple TDs in win
OU started its 2025 season with a 35-3 win over Illinois State on Saturday.
The Sooners debuted a new-look offense in the win, which totaled 492 yards. It was the first game for Washington State transfer quarterback John Mateer and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle. And they certainly had some good and bad moments. OU threw for 392, but only rushed for 102. Meanwhile, the defense lived up to expectations, holding Illinois State to 151 yards.
Here is how it all went down on Saturday for Oklahoma.
- Defining moment: Deion Burk’s one-handed grab. After a three-and-out and a fumble on the first two possessions of the game, Burks breathed life into the OU offense with a one-handed grab down the sideline. Burks finished the day with seven receptions for 88 yards and one touchdown.
- MVP: QB John Mateer. The new starting quarterback for the Sooners was electric in his debut. He threw for 392 yards and three touchdowns and one interception. He had only seven incompletions, going 30/37. He also ran for 24 yards and a touchdown. His leading receiver was Keontez Lewis, totaling nine receptions, 119 yards and two touchdowns.
- Stat to know: OU tight end Jaren Kanak had five receptions for 90 yards in his first game playing tight end. His 90 receiving yards are the most by an Oklahoma tight end since Brayden Willis had 102 versus Kansas in 2022.
- Injuries: Starting left tackle Jacob Sexton exited the game in the first quarter with a left knee issue and did not return. He was replaced by Luke Baklenko. Running back Tory Blaylock left the game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury and did not return.
- Up Next: The Sooners will host No. 14 Michigan on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC. College GameDay will be in town for the game, as it’s considered the best game of the weekend. It’s the second consecutive season OU will host the show on campus.
