In a surprising turn, Oklahoma State University has parted ways with longtime football coach Mike Gundy. The move comes after a rough 1-2 start to the 2025 season.
Athletic Director Chad Weiberg said the decision was about the program’s long-term success. Gundy, the second-longest-tenured FBS head coach, leaves behind a big legacy—but also a team that’s been struggling.
The Cowboys have been reeling from a string of losses. Despite big investments to revive the program, things just haven’t clicked.
The End of an Era: Mike Gundy’s Departure
Mike Gundy led Oklahoma State for 21 seasons, racking up more wins than any coach in school history. Still, a tough run—including an 11-game losing streak against FBS opponents—proved too much to overcome.
The last straw was a 19-12 loss to Tulsa. That marked the Cowboys’ 11th straight defeat against FBS teams.
Chad Weiberg’s Decision
Chad Weiberg explained that firing Gundy was about moving the program forward. He praised Gundy’s past, but said change was needed to meet the program’s high standards.
“We have higher expectations than that,” Weiberg admitted, clearly frustrated with the season’s start.
Immediate Changes: Interim Leadership
With Gundy out, first-year offensive coordinator Doug Meacham will take over as interim head coach. Strength and conditioning coach Rob Glass will handle administrative duties for now.
This interim team will steer the Cowboys through the rest of the season. Their next test? A matchup with Baylor.
Financial Implications
Gundy’s contract was set through 2028 and included a $15 million buyout. Weiberg confirmed Gundy will get the full payout.
It’s a hefty sum, especially after the program’s 3-9 finish in 2024. The financial side really highlights just how much the school has put into football.
Looking Ahead: The Search for a New Coach
Weiberg will lead the search for Oklahoma State’s next head coach. There’s no set timeline, but he stressed the need to build a strong foundation for the future.
He made a point to say that Gundy’s years of success shouldn’t be forgotten, even as the program moves on. It’s the first coaching search in two decades—no small thing.
Weiberg’s Own Future
There’s been some uncertainty around Weiberg, too, since he’s been working without a contract since late June. Sources say he’s about to sign a new four-year deal, with a raise from his $750,000 salary.
That should give the department some much-needed stability as they look for Gundy’s replacement.
The Stakes and Expectations
Oklahoma State football faces big pressure, especially now with NIL and revenue sharing changing the college game. Weiberg pointed out that the program isn’t exactly cheap to run—resources aren’t the issue.
He credited Gundy for showing that winning the Big 12, making the College Football Playoff, and chasing championships are all within reach. That’s the bar now.
Community and Fan Support
As the Cowboys transition, Weiberg asked the OSU family to rally behind whoever takes the reins. Fan and community support will matter more than ever as the team tries to get back on track.
Conclusion
Mike Gundy’s firing really does feel like the end of an era for Oklahoma State football.
His impact on the program? Can’t really be overstated.
Still, the decision to move on was made with the future in mind.
There’s interim leadership in place now, and the hunt for a new head coach has already started.
Honestly, it’s hard not to wonder what comes next.
Chad Weiberg pointed out that the long-term success of Oklahoma State football is going to take everyone in the OSU community pitching in.
For more details, read the full article on ESPN.
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