Sooners' QB John Mateer reveals the 'standard has been raised' in 2026

There is no secret that the Oklahoma Sooners have not had the dominant offensive line play that became a trademark of the program during the 2010s. During the Sooners' run in the 2010s, offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh had built one of the best units in college football.

Bedenbaugh also played a major role in developing numerous offensive linemen who went on to play in the NFL. However, in recent seasons, Oklahoma has struggled to consistently produce the dominant and physical offensive line that once defined the program.

That could be changing this upcoming season. The Sooners started three freshmen last season. All three were highly regarded recruits, and the expectation is that another offseason of development will allow them to take a big leap forward. On top of that, they return center Jake Maikkula, who enters his redshirt-senior season.

Quarterback John Mateer was asked during SEC media days about the progress he has seen from the offensive line throughout the offseason

“The standard has been raised," Mateer said. "That’s because the guys know each other and because the guys are coming back. The mistakes — not allowed. We don’t expect perfection, but we expect a very high level of performance.”

The offensive line will be one of the biggest factors in determining how high Oklahoma's offense can climb in 2026. With three young starters in Michael Fasusi, Ryan Fodje and Eddy Pierre-Louis returning alongside an experienced center in Maikkula, the Sooners have the continuity needed to make a major jump.

If the unit can return to the physical style that defined Oklahoma football under Bedenbaugh, it could unlock a much more balanced offense and take pressure off Mateer.

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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Sooners' QB John Mateer reveals the 'standard has been raised' in 2026