Washington State Football: John Mateer Named Starting Quarterback Ahead of 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 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](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_4760,h_2677,x_0,y_0/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/washington-state-cougars-on-si/01j5ppf3gqcameby8zdh.jpg)
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.
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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.