John Mateer's clutch throws lead to redemption and OU win over Texas

In a crucial moment during Saturday's Cotton Bowl game, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer found himself in possession of the ball with just 19 seconds left on the clock and Oklahoma trailing Texas 24-27. With a sense of redemption and the weight of scrutiny hanging over him, Mateer knew he had a chance to secure a win for his team. Kicker Tate Sandell was preparing on the sideline, and Mateer needed only about 20 yards to give his team an opportunity to potentially send No. 1-ranked Texas home with a loss.

With the game tied, Mateer, who had faced criticism for his poor play in the last three games of the season, trusted his top wide receiver, Isaiah Sategna, who had a quiet day leading up to the crucial plays. Mateer delivered two back-shoulder passes to Sategna, who successfully caught both passes and got his feet in bounds, ensuring the play stood up. These two throws proved to be Mateer's best of the season.

Postgame, Mateer reflected on the significance of his clutch throws, stating that he knew when they were thrown that the game was almost certainly over. The decisive play was Sandell's 47-yard field goal, which gave Oklahoma a 27-24 victory over Texas. This marked the first time Oklahoma had beaten Texas when the Longhorns were ranked number one in the country, ending their 0-4-1 record against them.

Oklahoma scored 20 points in the second half, with 17 of those points coming in the fourth quarter, demonstrating well-earned victories through special teams and avoiding turnovers.

Mateer's performance was not only a redemption for his struggles this season but also a reminder of his impressive play during the Red River game last year. As the No. 6-ranked team in the country, Mateer had been an early-season Heisman candidate, and he returned from surgery on his throwing thumb 17 days prior to try and end Texas' playoff hopes with a loss. Despite the outcome, Mateer found power and reflection in the game, recognizing it as one of the longest fourth quarters he had ever been a part of.