Oklahoma QB Mateer Sets Passing Record in 35-3 Win Over Illinois State

In his Oklahoma debut, quarterback John Mateer set a new school record by passing for 392 yards and four total touchdowns, leading the 18th-ranked Sooners to a 35-3 victory over Illinois State. Mateer, a transfer from Washington State, completed 30 of 37 passes and surpassed Baker Mayfield's previous debut record of 388 yards. The Sooners' passing game was dominant, with key contributions from transfers Keontez Lewis, who had 119 receiving yards and two touchdowns, and Deion Burks, who added 88 yards and a score. While Oklahoma's rushing attack was limited to 103 yards on 32 carries, their defense, coordinated by Brent Venables, restricted Illinois State to just 151 total yards and 34 passing yards. Despite a slow start, Mateer found his rhythm quickly, scoring both rushing and passing touchdowns, and his performance has raised expectations for him as a potential future Heisman Trophy contender. Oklahoma now prepares for a major matchup against No. 14 Michigan following this strong season opener.