Washington State Football: John Mateer Named Starting Quarterback Ahead of 2024

Joe Londergan | Aug 22, 2024

Sep 16, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Washington State Cougars quarterback John Mateer (10) throws a pass against the Northern Colorado Bears in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Washington State won 64-21. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports / James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

After a position battle that lasted throughout the spring, summer, and fall camp, the Washington State Cougars have decided upon a starting quarterback. Jake Dickert's staff formally announced redshirt sophomore John Mateer as the starter on Monday. Mateer beat out Bryant transfer Zevi Eckhaus for the job.

The product of Little Elm, Texas has appeared in 12 previous games for the Cougars, including 11 in 2023. In that time, he has completed 15 passes on 19 attempts for 267 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. The 6'1" 219-pound Matteer also has rushed for 151 yards and three touchdowns on 25 attempts.

"John is going to get exponentially better," Dickert said Monday afternoon. "Excited about him leading our team...Zevi will be ready when and if called upon."

Washington State will open the season on August 31 when they host Portland State in Pullman.

Published Aug 19, 2024|Modified Aug 22, 2024

JOE LONDERGAN

Joe Londergan joined the SI brand in 2023 with G5 Football Daily. With over 15 years of experience in covering and working directly in college and pro sports, Joe's expertise has been featured in Front Office Sports, SB Nation, and XRAY.FM. He is a member of both the Football Writers' Association of America and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers' Association. Joe holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Louisville and a master's degree in sports administration from Seattle University. Outside of his writing career, Joe enjoys golfing, although he admits that while he hits driver decently, his short game is a liability.