The Oklahoma State football program is at a crossroads after the dismissal of longtime head coach Mike Gundy. An OSU alum, Gundy has been part of the Cowboys’ coaching staff for nearly four decades.
He spent the last 20 years as head coach. His departure really does mark the end of an era—and the start of something new for the team.
In his final message to the team, Gundy talked about resilience and determination. He urged the players to keep fighting, no matter what comes next.
The End of an Era: Mike Gundy’s Legacy at Oklahoma State
Mike Gundy’s time at Oklahoma State is legendary. Over two decades, he racked up 170 wins and became the most successful coach in the program’s history.
Under Gundy, the Cowboys won a Big 12 Conference championship in 2011 and a divisional title in 2010. From 2010 to 2023, the team had eight 10-win seasons.
The 2011 season stands out—a 12-1 campaign that ended with a Fiesta Bowl victory. Even though they missed the BCS National Championship, plenty of folks (Gundy included) believed that 2011 squad was the best in the country.
A Season of Struggles: 2024’s Unmitigated Disaster
But not every year was a highlight. The 2024 season was rough.
After a solid 10-4 record in 2023, the Cowboys only managed three wins in 2024 and lost all nine conference games. That hadn’t happened since 1991—and going winless in conference play hadn’t happened since 1994.
The struggles bled into the current season. The team sits at 1-2, including a jaw-dropping 69-3 loss to Oregon and a 19-12 defeat at home to Tulsa.
Gundy’s Final Message: Resilience and Determination
Despite the rough ending, Gundy’s last words to the team were all about resilience. “Mike came in after practice and talked to our guys, the staff, all the guys in the West End Zone,” said Oklahoma State director of football business Kenyatta Wright.
“He told everybody after practice, ‘You look this adversity in the eye. You keep the course. Stay the course and you continue to fight and beat Baylor’s a–.’”
Gundy’s words really show his commitment to the program. Even on the way out, he wanted the team to keep pushing forward.
Impact on the Team and Fans
Gundy’s departure leaves a big hole for the team and fans alike. As the second-longest active head coach in major college football, he was a steadying presence and a source of inspiration.
His record set a high bar for whoever comes next. Fans will remember Gundy for his on-field success and his loyalty to Oklahoma State football.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Oklahoma State Football
With Gundy gone, Oklahoma State football is heading into a period of transition. The search for a new head coach has started, and the team will have to adjust to new leadership.
Still, Gundy’s legacy isn’t going anywhere. His focus on resilience and fighting spirit will stick with the team as they move forward.
Potential Candidates for Head Coach
The hunt for Gundy’s replacement is a huge moment for the program. Whoever takes over will need experience, a sharp mind for strategy, and the ability to light a fire under the team.
No frontrunners have been announced yet. But one thing’s for sure—the next coach will have a lot to live up to, and everyone’s watching to see where Oklahoma State goes from here.
The firing of Mike Gundy really does feel like the end of an era for Oklahoma State football. But honestly, it also cracks open a door to something new—maybe even something better.
Gundy’s last words to the team? They hit on resilience and sticking it out when things get rough. It’s not just coach-speak; it’s a reminder that grit matters, especially now.
If you want to dig deeper into what Gundy actually said, you can check out the full article here.
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