In the world of college football, the quarterback position is one of the most scrutinized, and the SEC (Southeastern Conference) has historically been home to some of the nation’s best. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, one quarterback standing out among the crowd is John Mateer. As a freshman, he’s already generating significant buzz. But where does he fit in among the big names like Arch Manning, who will also be in his early years at the University of Texas, and others in the conference? Let’s take a look at how John Mateer stacks up in the SEC quarterback rankings, considering both established players and promising up-and-comers.
The SEC Quarterback Landscape in 2025
Before diving into John Mateer’s specific case, it’s important to set the stage for the overall quarterback landscape in the SEC in 2025. As of now, quarterbacks such as Bryce Young (Alabama), Hendon Hooker (Tennessee), and Will Rogers (Mississippi State) have either graduated or will have completed their college careers. This opens up the door for a new generation of quarterbacks to step in and claim the spotlight.
- Arch Manning (Texas): One of the most hyped prospects in recent years, Arch Manning has been under the microscope since his high school days. Being the grandson of Archie Manning, son of Cooper Manning, and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has had a lifelong exposure to the game. However, he faces high expectations, and his move to Texas could take a few years to fully bear fruit.
- Jaden Rashada (Florida): Rashada is another highly regarded freshman who will likely be vying for a starting position in 2025. With the instability in Florida’s quarterback situation in recent years, there’s a good chance Rashada gets the keys to the offense early on.
- Tyler Van Dyke (Missouri): A veteran quarterback with experience in the SEC, Van Dyke is not among the most talked-about players, but he’s still someone who can make an impact if Missouri’s offensive line and playcalling can help him develop.
- Carson Beck (Georgia): With Georgia’s recent dominance in college football, their quarterback situation is also one to watch. If Beck, who will be a sophomore in 2025, continues his development, Georgia will be in a strong position at the quarterback position.
Enter John Mateer: The Next Big Thing?
John Mateer, a quarterback who has seen impressive growth as a high school star, comes into the SEC as a potential game-changer. Coming out of the high school ranks, Mateer has already shown the physical and mental tools necessary to succeed at the next level. But how does he compare to his peers in the SEC, including the likes of Arch Manning and others?
1. Physical Tools and Skillset
John Mateer possesses the prototypical build for a modern-day SEC quarterback. Standing at 6’4” and weighing around 225 pounds, he has the frame to withstand the physical rigors of the SEC. But his physical attributes are just the beginning. His arm strength is remarkable, and his ability to make all the throws—whether deep balls, sideline throws, or intermediate routes—has turned heads among scouts and analysts alike.
One area where Mateer separates himself is his poise under pressure. He’s shown a remarkable ability to remain calm and make high-level decisions, something that is crucial in a conference as physically demanding and mentally taxing as the SEC. Though still developing, his footwork is clean, and his mobility allows him to escape pressure, though he is not as mobile as some of the dual-threat quarterbacks who populate the conference.
2. Mental and Tactical Development
Mateer’s ability to read defenses and manage the game has been described as above average for his age. His high school team ran a pro-style offense, which mirrors many SEC schemes, and this has helped him prepare for the transition to college football. Like many quarterbacks coming into the SEC, the speed of the game will be a challenge, but Mateer’s football IQ is one of his strongest suits. He is already known for his quick decision-making and ability to process the defense pre-snap, allowing him to find mismatches and exploit them.
One area where Mateer might have to improve is his consistency on deep throws. Though he has the arm strength to make them, he occasionally struggles with accuracy when pushing the ball downfield. But given his work ethic and natural ability, this is something that could be addressed in the coming years.
3. Development Timeline
While Arch Manning enters the 2025 season with an immense amount of hype, Mateer’s situation is different. Manning is stepping into a Texas program that is in the midst of rebuilding but will be starting with a solid foundation and an established coaching staff. Mateer, on the other hand, will likely be playing for an SEC program that has high expectations for all positions, particularly quarterback.
The learning curve will be steep for Mateer, and while he might not immediately jump in as the starter, there’s an opportunity for him to sit and learn behind an experienced signal-caller in 2025, much like how many successful quarterbacks have had to do in the SEC. The chance to acclimate to the speed of the game, build his chemistry with receivers, and refine his skills could lead to a very bright future once he gets the chance to start in the following seasons.
4. Comparison with Arch Manning
When comparing John Mateer to Arch Manning, the two share some similarities, but also notable differences. Both quarterbacks are tall with strong arms, and both have had their fair share of hype. However, Manning’s pedigree and family legacy make his situation unique. His last name alone will generate media buzz, but that could also add immense pressure as well.
In terms of raw talent, Mateer might be more polished than Manning at the moment, especially considering that Manning has yet to play a snap at the college level. While Manning’s arm strength and mobility are impressive, he hasn’t had the same level of exposure to top-tier defenses that Mateer has. The next few years will reveal how well Manning can adjust to college football, while Mateer’s development might be more gradual but steady.
5. The SEC’s Quarterback Depth in 2025
The SEC will feature a number of strong quarterbacks in 2025. Outside of Manning and Rashada, other notable quarterbacks like Carson Beck at Georgia and Jaden Ivey at Auburn will be looking to make their mark. If Mateer can take the next step in his development and step into a starting role by 2025, he will face fierce competition, particularly from quarterbacks who have had a year or two of college experience.
However, Mateer’s ability to compete in a high-pressure environment could allow him to stand out. The SEC is known for its defense, but a quarterback who can read defenses well, manage the game, and deliver accurate throws will thrive. If Mateer can overcome the challenge of acclimating to the SEC’s speed and physicality, he could eventually emerge as one of the top quarterbacks in the conference.
