NORMAN, Oklahoma — Brent Venables confirmed on Thursday that John Mateer would remain Oklahoma's starting quarterback for Saturday's game. The decision came three days after the Sooners head coach fired offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and declined to guarantee Mateer's place.

Venables had told reporters earlier in the week that 'everything is on the table' at quarterback following Arbuckle's dismissal. The comment prompted speculation in Norman that a backup could be handed the start. Mateer followed Arbuckle from Washington State, and the pair's partnership had been central to Oklahoma's offensive rebuild.

Speaking to reporters after practice, Venables said Mateer had earned the chance to lead the team through the transition. Venables said play-calling duties would be handled by members of the existing offensive staff on an interim basis. He did not rule out further changes to the depth chart later in the season.

The decision avoided a second upheaval in a single week for an offence that has struggled for consistency. Oklahoma remains in contention for a bowl place in the Southeastern Conference. Venables is under pressure from supporters to deliver results in his fifth season in charge.

The interim arrangement is expected to last until the end of the regular season. Oklahoma is likely to begin a formal search for a permanent offensive coordinator after the campaign concludes. Mateer's performances over the final weeks are likely to shape both decisions.