Oklahoma football stumbled badly against Georgia 41-13 this past Saturday. Which featured Brent Venables considering benching star quarterback John Mateer in the aftermath of the loss.

So Venables addressed Mateer's QB1 status Wednesday. Including if unranked OU must make the change behind center to save its season.

Venables dropped a four-word response about Mateer's future with reporters at his presser.

“John's our starting quarterback,” Venables shared.

Venables' words comes amid a rough 2026 start for Mateer. Who once garnered some preseason Heisman Trophy hype after leading the Sooners into the College Football Playoffs.

Mateer hasn't thrown for more than 300 yards in a game this season. Nor has the dual-threat passer rushed for more than 45 yards in a game.

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He and the Sooners have already taken two costly losses: One to Michigan in week two and the more recent Georgia drubbing. Mateer delivered 25-of-34 passing for 231 yards and tossed two touchdowns. But absorbed three sacks and got picked off once.

Oklahoma is facing dwindling hopes to play for the SEC Championship. Plus its College Football Playoffs chances are hitting turbulence. OU still has a fierce conference gauntlet on deck after the bye week.

No. 1 ranked Texas is on deck next on Oct. 10 in the famed Red River Rivalry. But that contest launches a three-game stretch featuring other ranked teams in No. 24 Kentucky and No. 16 Mississippi State.

But that's not all gauntlet wise for Venables, Mateer and the Sooners. Top 10 foes Florida and Ole Miss are still left on the schedule. No. 25 Missouri closes out the regular season. OU looks like it's simply playing to make a bowl game. But clearly remains confident with Mateer behind center.