BREAKING: SEC Analyst Predicts OU QB John Mateer Will Outscore Texas’ Arch Manning in TDs This Season
SEC analyst has projected that Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer will throw and rush for more touchdowns than Texas’ highly touted signal-caller Arch Manning this season. The statement, delivered on a national sports show Tuesday morning, sent shockwaves through the Big 12 and SEC fanbases alike, with many calling it premature — and others calling it prophetic.
John Mateer, who enters the 2025 season as the presumed starting quarterback for the Sooners, has largely flown under the radar compared to the spotlight that has followed Arch Manning since high school. While Manning boasts a football pedigree and a famous last name, Mateer has been quietly developing behind the scenes, showing flashes of dual-threat brilliance in limited appearances last season. According to the analyst, it’s Mateer’s versatility, poise, and understanding of Jeff Lebby’s offensive scheme that gives him the edge heading into this pivotal year.
Arch Manning, meanwhile, remains the most watched quarterback in college football, thanks to his lineage and his decision to play for the Longhorns. After redshirting and seeing limited action behind Quinn Ewers, Manning is now expected to take full command of the Texas offense. The pressure is enormous — not only because of the legacy he carries but also due to Texas’ move into the SEC and the high expectations placed on Steve Sarkisian’s offense. Manning’s talent is undeniable, but the analyst argued that his learning curve might be steeper than anticipated against elite SEC defenses.
What makes the prediction particularly compelling is the context in which both quarterbacks are developing. Mateer’s Oklahoma team is built to win now, with a veteran offensive line and a strong supporting cast of skill players. Meanwhile, Texas is in something of a transitional phase, integrating new offensive pieces and managing the loss of key receivers to the NFL. The analyst pointed out that Mateer’s ability to extend plays with his legs and capitalize on red-zone opportunities could lead to more overall touchdowns — both passing and rushing.
Reaction from both fanbases has been immediate and passionate. Oklahoma supporters have rallied behind Mateer, citing his underrated potential and the program’s history of quarterback success. Texas fans, on the other hand, have pushed back, insisting that Manning’s ceiling remains unmatched and that he will shine under Sarkisian’s guidance. Social media has been flooded with stats, highlights, and heated arguments, making this prediction one of the most discussed offseason storylines.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Norman and Austin to see how this quarterback showdown unfolds. If the analyst’s prediction proves correct, John Mateer could go from underdog to breakout star, while Arch Manning will have to silence critics once again. Either way, the Red River Rivalry just gained an extra layer of intrigue, and the battle between these two young quarterbacks might define the 2025 college football season.
