The Red River Rivalry between Oklahoma and Arch Manning’s Texas is heating up, and not just on the field. The focus has shifted from playbooks to player safety after Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer’s recent hand injury became a controversial talking point.
Mateer, who underwent surgery less than three weeks ago to repair a broken bone in his throwing hand, has been pushing for a rapid return against Texas. His recovery has drawn attention across college football.
However, it was a comment from ESPN analyst Booger McFarland that turned the spotlight in a different direction. While the players were practicing before kick off, McFarland suggested that Texas defenders could look to exploit the quarterback’s surgically repaired hand.
“That’s a thumb and a hand I would be looking to step on,” he SAID.
“That’s a thumb and a hand I would be looking to step on.” – ESPN/ABC’s Booger McFarland on Oklahoma QB John Mateer, who recently had surgery on a broken bone in his right hand. 😬 pic.twitter.com/E7sbK9uHES
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 11, 2025
The remark immediately drew backlash, with many calling it unsportsmanlike and dangerous. It implied that the Longhorns might gain an advantage by targeting the injury rather than focusing on a legitimate defensive strategy.
Mateer’s situation is remarkable. The star quarterback fractured his hand in a win over Auburn and underwent surgery on September 24. The expected recovery time was four to six weeks, yet he has been practicing and took the field just 17 days later.
For Texas, led by Arch Manning, the challenge is bouncing back from last week’s humiliating 21-29 loss against the Florida Gators. The Longhorns have had a rollercoaster ride this season so far, winning three of five games.
This could be Manning’s opportunity to bring his team back on track. At halftime, the Longhorns were trailing 3-6.
Blake Toppmeyer Predicted John Mateer’s Comeback
Heading into the weekend, Mateer was featured on the team’s injury report as questionable. Considering the nature of his injury and the surgery that he underwent, many thought he might miss the Longhorns matchup.
USA Today’s Blake Toppmeyer predicted that Mateer would suit up for his team against Texas. However, he stated that it wouldn’t be enough to beat Arch Manning’s team.
“How’s this for bold? John Mateer will play in the Red River Shootout, but Texas gets off the mat and prevails,” he SAID. “In the aftermath, The Athletic will declare Arch Manning the greatest quarterback of all time, one week after positioning Manning as the first flop in college football history.”
Oklahoma has been unbeaten so far this season, winning all five games. If they manage to beat Texas at the Cotton Bowl, it’ll be the biggest upset from them this season.
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