"College football programs are spending more money on their rosters than ever before entering 2025. Throughout the December and April portal windows, some splurged on six- and seven-figure deals with players available in the transfer portal whom they hoped could be difference-makers. Entering Week 3, the return on investment is already showing up in a massive way. The national leaderboards for total offense, rushing, receiving, tackles and sacks are full of transfer newcomers who are starting and thriving at their new schools."
"The level of hype Mateer had to live up to entering the 2025 season was borderline unfair. The Baker Mayfield comparisons began as soon as the Sooners started recruiting him. He and his offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle came in from Washington State, where they achieved a top-10 scoring offense in 2024, and were expected to instantly fix the worst Oklahoma offense since 1998 and totally flip the Sooners' fortunes in the SEC. Two games in, it sure looks as if they're going to do it."
"Oklahoma's 24-13 triumph over No. 15 Michigan last Saturday was by no means a perfect performance, but it showcased the Sooners' new QB1 and his ability to make magic happen. Mateer threw for 270 yards, rushed for 74, scored three times and filled up the highlight reel with his playmaking ability. "He's an electric quarterback now," Michigan coach Sherrone Moore said. "He's a gunslinger.""
College football programs increased roster spending entering 2025, signing players in the December and April transfer windows to six- and seven-figure deals. Early returns show those investments producing tangible results by Week 3, with transfer newcomers populating national leaderboards in total offense, rushing, receiving, tackles and sacks. The piece ranks the 10 most impactful portal pickups so far in 2025. John Mateer stands out after transferring to Oklahoma with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle from Washington State, delivering high-level performances, key stats and a signature win against No. 15 Michigan.
Read at ESPN.com
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