Oklahoma State fans have their eyes on more than just their own roster this season and with good reason. Down south, their in-state rivals at Oklahoma might have a rising star in quarterback John Mateer. After a series of strong performances, Mateer’s earned not only the respect of his own fanbase but also a nickname that echoes one of college football’s most electrifying — and controversial — former players: Johnny “Money” Manziel. Now, some are calling him “Money Mateer.” But Mateer, for all the on-field comparisons, was quick to point out one key difference between himself and Manziel.
"“I’m going to church every Sunday morning.”"John Mateer
It was a remark that grabbed headlines and raised eyebrows — not because it was hostile, but because it hinted at Mateer wanting to distinguish himself, not just from Manziel’s style of play but from his public persona. It was a tongue-in-cheek moment, not a dig, and Mateer seemed more amused than anything. Still, in a sport where image and narrative matter, especially in rivalry-rich states like Oklahoma, it’s the kind of comment that sticks. The nickname may be similar, but Mateer seems to want his own path and one that’s disciplined, focused, and maybe a bit more grounded.
To his credit, Johnny Manziel took the comment in stride. Rather than fire back, the former Heisman winner praised the young quarterback and made it clear there were no hard feelings.
"“I don’t think anything that he said is a slide,” Manziel said. “I get he’s trying to be funny. It is what it is. Continue to keep playing well, young fella. And all is well.” "Johnny Manziel
Manziel even added that he went to church with his family growing up, hinting that the difference might not be as stark as it appears. For Manziel, who has grown and matured since his college days, it was a gracious and encouraging response.
But from the Oklahoma side, the real takeaway isn’t the back-and-forth, it’s what Mateer is doing on the field. Whether the nickname “Money Mateer” was meant as a joke or a badge of honor, it’s starting to fit. He’s shown poise in tight situations, taken over late-game moments, and delivered consistent results. For Oklahoma, who entered this season needing stability at quarterback, Mateer’s performance has been exactly what they hoped for. A nickname is only as good as the play behind it, and right now, he’s backing it up.
Interestingly, the football comparisons between Manziel and Mateer aren’t that far off. Both play with energy and unpredictability. Both have a knack for escaping pressure, extending plays, and flipping momentum. But that’s where the similarities end. Off the field, Mateer seems committed to crafting a different story. That is one rooted in discipline, personal faith, and a desire to lead in his own way. That contrast probably matters more to Mateer than he lets on. Being compared to Manziel on the field is a compliment. Off the field? Not so much.
For Oklahoma State fans watching from the other side of Bedlam, this development adds extra spice to the rivalry. It’s one thing when your rival team has talent. It’s another when they have a quarterback who’s starting to gain national attention — not just for how he plays, but for how he carries himself. The challenge for Oklahoma State this season will be keeping that spotlight from getting too bright. Because if Mateer keeps playing like this, and if “Money Mateer” becomes more than just a catchy name, Oklahoma may have found its next headline-maker. This is one that rivals across the state will have to contend with for seasons to come.
At the end of the day, the comment about church may have just been a playful line, but it also drew a line in the sand. Mateer isn’t trying to be the next Johnny Manziel. He’s trying to be something else and maybe even something better. And in a state where college football is religion, that might matter more than any nickname ever could.