Big 12 Champs — Sooners Dominate Texas, Look to Playoff

Arlington, TX — On the biggest stage of the Big 12 season, the Oklahoma Sooners reminded everyone why they’re the nation’s top-ranked team. Behind a surgical performance from quarterback John Mateer and a swarming defense, OU dismantled Texas 42–17 at AT&T Stadium to claim yet another Big 12 Championship and a perfect 13–0 record.

Coach Lovie Mahawg, his trademark cigar in hand, summed it up simply:

“We didn’t come here to share trophies — we came to take what’s ours, and we took it.”

A photorealistic image of fictional Oklahoma Sooners head coach Lovie Mahawg celebrating on the field after the Big 12 Championship win. He is wearing a crimson OU quarter-zip and visor, raising his fist triumphantly while a cigar rests between his teeth. Stadium lights glow in the background, with a blurred crowd adding to the victorious atmosphere.

Mateer Masterclass

Mateer was flawless, completing 26 of 33 passes for 329 yards and 5 touchdowns, plus a rushing score. He spread the ball all over the field, connecting with Deion Burks (98 yards, 1 TD), Isaiah Sategna (84 yards, 1 TD), and Jayden Gibson (72 yards, 2 TDs). Tight end Tramon Wheeler chipped in with a clutch red-zone touchdown as well.

Mahawg praised his quarterback’s poise under pressure:

“Mateer doesn’t blink. Doesn’t matter if it’s the first quarter or fourth, he plays like he’s built for this — because he is.”

Defense Sets the Tone

Texas moved the ball at times but was shut down in key moments, thanks to a relentless OU defense. Peyton Bowen and Kobie McKinzie each racked up 10 tackles, with McKinzie snagging a critical interception. R. Mason Thomas added another sack, while Damonic Williams and Kendal Daniels wreaked havoc in the trenches.

Mahawg grinned when talking about his defense:

“That’s what OU defense looks like — fast, mean, and looking to ruin your day.”

Playoff Path Set

With the Big 12 trophy secured, the Sooners turn their attention to the College Football Playoff. As the #1 seed, OU will face the winner of #9 Penn State (American Conference Champion) and #8 Oregon (Pac-12 Champion) in the quarterfinal.

“Doesn’t matter who it is — Penn State, Oregon, or the Dallas Cowboys. Line ’em up, we’ll be ready,” Mahawg said with a smirk.

The 2025 College Football Playoff bracket graphic. Oklahoma holds the #1 seed (13-0) and will face the winner of #9 Penn State (12-1) and #8 Oregon (11-2) in the quarterfinals. Other first-round matchups include #12 Ole Miss (10-3) vs. #5 Clemson (11-2), #11 USC (11-1) vs. #6 Georgia (10-2), and #10 Michigan (13-0) vs. #7 LSU (13-0). The path to the national title game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL is shown on the right, with the College Football Playoff trophy pictured prominently.

Looking Ahead

The Sooners are now just two wins away from returning to Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium for a shot at the national title. But for Mahawg, there’s no looking past the next step.

“Enjoy this one tonight, but tomorrow? Tomorrow it’s back to work. We’re not done.”

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