Oklahoma quarterback Mateer denies sports betting amid Venmo scrutiny

After transferring from Washington State, Mateer faces questions tied to gambling accusations while aiming to boost his NFL draft stock.

Oklahoma quarterback Mateer denies sports betting amid Venmo scrutiny

Screenshots circulating online show Venmo transactions with the note sports gambling, a detail that drew scrutiny as Mateer moves from Washington State to Oklahoma. He was in college at Washington State when the transactions occurred, and they involved a teammate. Oklahoma has named Mateer the starting quarterback for the upcoming season, with many eyes on how a strong year could lift his draft prospects for 2026. Mateer stated on social media that he has never bet on sports and described the gambling references as inside jokes that were taken out of context. Oklahoma issued a statement saying the program takes gambling allegations seriously and works with the NCAA in any related matter, while noting there is no known NCAA investigation at this time.

The broader backdrop is the growing presence of legalized sports betting in the United States and the increased scrutiny on athletes’ personal finances and online activity. The episode tests how universities balance transparency, due process, and the reputational risks that accompany highly visible transfers. Mateer’s performance this season may shape public perception more than the screenshots themselves if he proves his abilities on the field.

This incident comes at a time when college football sits under a spotlight on athlete conduct and external influences like betting markets. The NCAA has strict rules about gambling and student-athlete participation, while schools must manage fan expectations and media narratives around transfers who carry high draft hopes. The case also highlights how social media and digital payments blur lines between jokes, personal spending, and official conduct. If the matter remains dormant, Mateer could still face long-term reputational risk. If it escalates, the story could overshadow his on-field development and complicate Oklahoma’s quarterback room dynamics.

Highlights

The season will test whether a player’s talent can outpace a growing landscape of scrutiny