Just over a month out, with rosters clarified and the portal closed, season projections are beginning to be released. Wednesday, ESPN.com wrote about each of its preseason top-25 teams' X-factor. Reporter Chris Low, who writes about the SEC, selected Mateer as the key to Oklahoma's season.

It’s no secret that Oklahoma’s wide receiver play in 2024 was less than stellar. And to an extent, it simply couldn’t be helped. The Sooners dealt with a litany of injuries at the position, and several reserves and true freshmen were pressed into much larger roles than anticipated.

John Mateer has been working to elevate Oklahoma’s offense even further. Both Mateer and new OU offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle were pleased with the progress the unit made in learning the new scheme through spring practice,