Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer delivered one of the most memorable soundbites of the young season when asked about comparisons to former Texas A&M star Johnny Manziel. With a grin, Mateer kept it simple. “I’m going to church in the morning,” he said, drawing laughs and sparking plenty of reaction online.
The comment came after Mateer was asked about his playing style and whether it reminded him of Manziel, who electrified college football during his Heisman Trophy run in 2012. The comparison is one that many quarterbacks would take as a compliment, but Mateer chose to lean into humor and make clear that while his game might have some similarities, his personality and lifestyle are different.
For Oklahoma fans, the response added another layer to what has already been an impressive start to Mateer’s season. The junior has given the Sooners’ offense a dynamic look, using his legs to extend plays while showing composure as a passer. His ability to improvise does bring memories of Manziel, and it is easy to see why the comparison surfaced. But Mateer’s lighthearted answer reinforced the idea that he is not interested in being anyone other than himself.
The clip quickly circulated on social media, with fans and media alike sharing it for its comedic timing. For a program that has faced its share of pressure in recent years, having a quarterback who can perform at a high level and also show personality is a refreshing change. Mateer’s confidence comes across both on the field and at the podium, and that confidence is rubbing off on his teammates.
Manziel’s career remains one of the most debated in modern college football, both for his brilliance on the field and the controversies off it. By dropping a simple line about “going to church,” Mateer managed to acknowledge the comparison without taking on the baggage that comes with it. The joke landed, but the underlying message was clear: he intends to carve his own path at Oklahoma.
If his play continues to match his presence, Mateer could be the kind of quarterback who not only produces for the Sooners but also becomes a fan favorite for how he carries himself. Saturday’s quip was just the latest example of that.
