Oklahoma fans outraged after humiliating loss to Arch Manning-led Texas in Red River rivalry

Calls for Brent Venables’ firing grew after No. 6 Oklahoma’s 23-6 loss to Texas in Saturday’s Red Rivalry game. This was the Sooners’ first loss of the 2025 season, dropping them to 5-1 after Week 7.

Oklahoma failed to score a touchdown for the second straight game. The loss also brought Venables’ record against Texas to 1-3, and frustration was high among the fans.

“Shoot Brent Venables tonight,” one fan said.

“There was blood in the water. You could have ended your bitterest rival’s season here, and this is how the team looks? Fire Brent Venables,” one said.

“This is just embarrassing Brent Venables. Resign,” one person said.

The Sooners’ offense produced only 258 total yards and quarterback John Mateer completed 20 of 38 passes for 202 yards but threw three interceptions.

“Hmm maybe Oklahoma needs a new HC next year lol. Brent Venables will never win at OU,” one person said.

“Brent Venables is a bad football coach. He has done nothing to advance the University of Oklahoma football program. That’s a fact. Show me wrong,” one added.

“Lost a lot of respect for Brent Venables today. Great defense but man he can’t lead a team. Mateer had no business playing,” one fan said.

Oklahoma’s defense is ranked No. 1 in the nation in many defensive categories, but this team also struggled mightily in Week 7.

Brent Venables praises John Mateer’s courage after rapid recovery

The main storyline heading into Oklahoma’s Week 7 game centered on the health of John Mateer following hand surgery on September 24. He missed the Sooners’ 44-0 win over Kent State on Oct. 4.

Brent Venables confirmed Mateer was medically cleared to play on Thursday and praised him for his tenacity during his recovery.

“He embodies courage and tenacity,” Venables said in his post-match conference. “He loves to compete. He loves his teammates. A week ago, playing at Kent State, he wanted to put on pads. He didn’t want to be in shorts and a hat and sunglasses and jewelry and everything else.

“He wanted to be with his teammates before the game and every other part of the day. He’s amazing. He followed all the protocols and that kind of thing. Everyone’s body heals and reacts differently. No surprise who John is.”

Saturday’s match took place just 17 days after Mateer’s surgery.