The Oklahoma Sooners announced that quarterback John Mateer will be out for an extended period of time as he is set to undergo surgery on his right hand for an injury he sustained in Saturday's win over Auburn.
"After consulting with medical experts, it became clear that surgery is the best option for John and his short- and long-term future," said head coach Brent Venables. "He's extremely disappointed he will miss some game action but is eager to correct the issue and move forward. As he is with everything, we know he will be aggressive with his rehabilitation and work to return to the field as quickly as possible."
Sophomore Michael Hawkins Jr. will step in as the team's new starting QB until Mateer returns. Hawkins posted 907 total yards, four total touchdowns, and two interceptions last season (seven games, four starts).
"We have all the confidence in the world in Michael and are excited for his opportunity to lead our offense while John recovers," said Venables.
Mateer threw for 271 yards and a touchdown on 24-of-36 passing last week, bringing his season totals up to 1,215 yards and six touchdowns, along with three interceptions.
No. 7-ranked Oklahoma are 4-0 on the year and have a brutal schedule ahead of them. For the rest of the year, here's how their schedule stacks up:
vs. Kent State (October 4th)
vs. #10 Texas (October 11th)
@ South Carolina (October 18th)
vs. #13 Ole Miss (October 25th)
@ #15 Tennessee (November 1st)
@ #17 Alabama (November 15th)
vs. #20 Missouri (November 22nd)
vs. #4 LSU (December 9th)
