Oklahoma Sooners star quarterback John Mateer sent shockwaves through college football Wednesday when he flat-out refused to wear the team-issued rainbow LGBT pride armband scheduled for this weekend’s Bedlam clash against Oklahoma State, telling coaches and staff in a closed-door meeting: “Football is for men, not for the woke agenda. I’m here to play ball, not push politics.”
The 23-year-old dual-threat gunslinger, who has led the Sooners to an 8-3 record and a playoff fringe ranking with 2,800 passing yards and nearly 1,000 rushing, reportedly stood his ground when presented with the Big 12’s league-wide inclusivity initiative. Sources inside the program say Mateer was respectful but unwavering: “I respect everybody, but I’m not wearing that on my arm. My faith and my beliefs come first.”
The decision instantly divided the fanbase. Thousands flooded social media with #StandWithMateer posts, praising him for “having the guts to stand up,” while others accused the program of forcing politics into sports. One viral clip (viewed 4.2 million times) shows Mateer walking off the practice field with his black armband still in his locker, shaking his head when asked about it by reporters.
Head coach Brent Venables has so far declined comment, saying only, “We handle internal matters internally.” The Big 12 office confirmed the pride armbands are optional but “strongly encouraged” for the final weekend of the regular season.
Mateer, an outspoken Christian who frequently thanks Jesus after games, has never shied away from his beliefs but had stayed clear of controversy until now. Teammates appear split—some privately support him, while others worry about the distraction heading into the biggest Bedlam in years.
Whether Mateer takes the field Saturday with a plain black sleeve or no sleeve at all, one thing is clear: the Sooners’ Heisman-contending quarterback just drew the hardest line in the sand college football has seen all season.
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