Oklahoma State Parts Ways with Head Coach Mike Gundy After Disappointing 1-2 Start in His 21st Season

Oklahoma State has made a big change. Mike Gundy is out as head football coach after 21 years, marking a significant moment in the school’s sports history. Just days ago, the Cowboys suffered back-to-back losses, including a painful 69-3 defeat against Oregon. This led to a decision many believed was overdue.

Chad Weiberg, the athletic director, mentioned the rapid changes in college football. “The investment to compete has increased immensely,” he said. As the school looks for a new coach, they want someone ready to lead in this evolved landscape.

Gundy’s exit comes right after a shocking loss to rival Tulsa. It was their first defeat to Tulsa since 1998, highlighting how far the program has fallen. Gundy’s coaching career, which started with a memorable outburst, saw him achieve a record of 170-90 and win a Big 12 title.

Despite some successes, the last few years were rocky. In 2024, he faced backlash after a winless Big 12 season. He was willing to make changes, including adjusting his salary. Yet, the team’s struggles persisted. Just two seasons prior, Oklahoma State reached the Big 12 title game, showcasing Gundy’s ability to push the team to greatness.

The landscape of college football is shifting. Recent statistics show that schools with higher investment in name, image, and likeness deals often see better performance. For instance, Gundy noted that Oregon spent nearly $40 million on player compensation, far outpacing Oklahoma State’s $7 million.

Interestingly, Gundy was both celebrated and critiqued. He often charged through challenges but faced scrutiny when he wore a controversial shirt in 2020 that caused friction with players. Still, his passion for the game and dedication to his players never wavered.

He leaves as one of the longest-serving coaches in college football history, paving the way for the next chapter at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys now look ahead, with hopes of rebuilding and keeping up with a rapidly changing sport.

For more details on the shifts in college football and its impact on coaching careers, check out NCAA’s official report.

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Oklahoma State Cowboys, College Football