When Oklahoma first added Bowe Bentley, the expectation was simple: the class of 2026 quarterback would step in as John Mateer’s backup. But Whitt Newbauer has pushed that conversation into something more competitive.
Newbauer, who arrived from Mercer and spent 2025 as the Sooners’ third-string quarterback, has put together an offseason that shows real progress. Bentley’s first college offseason has had its highs and lows, while Newbauer has looked more settled as his experience in the system grows.
That competition has been obvious to Mateer.
"(Newbauer) and Bowe going at it, it was fun to watch for me," Mateer said on Friday. "I love both of them.
Seeing both of them succeed, they both get excited for each other, and they learn from each other and with each other, and I learn from them too. It's fun to watch.”
Newbauer says the same dynamic has helped him on the other side of it.
"(Mateer's) been great," Newbauer said. "He's been balling out.
It's awesome being in the same room as him, learning every day for him. It's been great."
That kind of exchange might not grab attention outside the quarterback room, but it matters. A starting quarterback setting the tone with the backups can help a team handle a long season and build better chemistry across the roster. For Newbauer, it has also been part of his own growth.
"(I'm) definitely more confident in the offense for sure, knowing where everyone is, what to do," Newbauer said. "Big thing is just the film room, knowing the defense, knowing where I'm going with the ball pre-snap.”
And with Mateer described as a very physical player, having a capable second option matters if he gets nicked up. Newbauer has also built chemistry with some reserve receivers who are trying to carve out roles of their own.
"(Elijah Thomas and Manny Choice are) great receivers," Newbauer said. "Both looking to have a good season this year but yeah, they've had a great fall camp so far.
"(Jahsiear Rogers) is learning every day. He's always asking questions trying to get better.
He's a great target for me to go to. I love him,” he added.
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