Mike Gundy, a prominent figure in college football, has spent 35 of his 58 years on Earth either playing for or coaching his alma mater, Oklahoma State University. However, following a disappointing 1-2 start to the season, the university made the shocking decision to fire Gundy, effectively ending his long-standing relationship with the program. Gundy, who served as the head coach since 2005, was the second-longest tenured coach in the FBS and was pivotal in elevating OSU football to unprecedented heights.
Under Gundy’s leadership, the Oklahoma State Cowboys achieved remarkable success, including a Big 12 championship in 2011 and eight seasons with ten or more wins. Gundy accumulated a total of 170 victories during his tenure, making him the winningest coach in OSU football history. Before Gundy's arrival, the program had only three 10-win seasons, two of which occurred while he was the starting quarterback alongside legends like Barry Sanders and Thurman Thomas.
When Gundy took over the program in 2005, it was largely viewed as an afterthought in both the state and the college football landscape, overshadowed by the University of Oklahoma. The football team lacked the necessary resources and infrastructure to compete effectively. However, thanks to the efforts of Gundy and the financial backing of influential alumni like T. Boone Pickens, who donated a staggering $165 million to the athletic program, OSU began its transformation from a Big 12 afterthought to a competitive powerhouse.
Gundy’s first season resulted in a 4-7 record, but it laid the groundwork for an impressive bowl streak lasting 18 consecutive years. This streak marked the longest in program history, although it faced challenges along the way. OSU's resilience was evident in 2014 when they secured a dramatic 38-35 overtime win over rival Oklahoma, which rejuvenated Gundy’s tenure and resulted in a subsequent bowl victory.
Despite numerous successes, Gundy's tenure was not without its challenges. The team faced a harsh reality during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, culminating in a disappointing 3-9 record. This drastic decline led to a restructuring of Gundy's contract, including a significant pay cut. The team’s recent performances, particularly a 69-3 loss to Oregon and a lifeless defeat to Tulsa, signaled a need for change, ultimately leading to Gundy’s dismissal.
Throughout his career, Gundy was no stranger to controversy. His actions and statements often drew criticism, including a notable incident in 2020 when he was photographed wearing a shirt promoting a controversial news network. This sparked backlash from players, particularly from All-American running back Chuba Hubbard, who threatened to boycott activities related to the school until changes were made. Although Gundy later apologized, the incident highlighted a growing disconnect between him and his players.
Gundy’s legacy at Oklahoma State is complex. He brought the program to new heights, but his recent failures and public missteps overshadowed his accomplishments. Ultimately, his firing marks the end of an era for OSU football, as the university seeks to move forward without the long-time coach who defined a generation of Cowboys football. As expectations for the program shift, Gundy's contributions will remain a significant part of Oklahoma State's athletic history.
