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.

New quarterback John Mateer, who transferred from Washington State, plays a key role in the program’s plan to return to the top.

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables addressed numerous questions at SEC Media Days in Atlanta, as the team faces high expectations for the upcoming football season.