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BREAKING: Oklahoma State Fires Mike Gundy, Ending a Landmark Era in Stillwater

In stunning news that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Oklahoma State University has fired longtime head coach Mike Gundy, according to a report from @clowfb. The decision marks the end of one of the most enduring and polarizing tenures in modern college football, as Gundy departs Stillwater after nearly two decades at the helm of the Cowboys.

For a program that Gundy helped shape into a Big 12 contender and national brand, the firing represents both the end of an era and the beginning of a difficult search for a new identity.

A Legacy in Stillwater

Mike Gundy took over as head coach of Oklahoma State in 2005, stepping into the role as a former Cowboy quarterback who understood the culture of Stillwater better than almost anyone. Across 19 seasons, Gundy compiled an impressive résumé:

• 165+ career wins (most in program history).
• 17 consecutive bowl appearances.
• A Big 12 Championship (2011), the program’s first outright conference title since 1948.
• A Fiesta Bowl victory (2011), one of the crowning achievements in school history.

Under Gundy, Oklahoma State transformed from a middling Big 12 program into a respected national presence. He developed a reputation for offensive innovation, producing high-powered units led by stars such as Brandon Weeden, Justin Blackmon, Mason Rudolph, James Washington, and most recently Spencer Sanders.

Gundy’s program became a launchpad for NFL talent, particularly at the quarterback and wide receiver positions, while also building consistency in recruiting and player development.

Why Now?

Despite his success, the firing raises obvious questions: why would Oklahoma State part ways with the winningest coach in its history?

According to multiple reports, the decision stemmed from a combination of factors:

1. Declining Results – While Gundy maintained bowl eligibility, the Cowboys have struggled to remain true Big 12 title contenders in recent years. Since their memorable 2021 season, the team has posted inconsistent results, with puzzling losses that frustrated fans and boosters.
2. Changing Big 12 Landscape – With Texas and Oklahoma set to depart for the SEC, OSU boosters may have felt this was the perfect time to reset the program’s direction. The Cowboys are expected to be one of the Big 12’s flagship programs moving forward, and leadership likely wanted fresh energy.
3. Off-Field Tensions – Gundy’s tenure has not been without controversy. His outspoken personality, public disputes with players, and moments of friction with university leadership created tension over the years. While tolerated during peak success, those issues may have resurfaced as on-field results plateaued.

Ultimately, Oklahoma State’s administration may have felt that Gundy had taken the program as far as he could—and that a new voice was needed for the next chapter.

Reaction Around College Football

The firing of Mike Gundy has generated immediate and wide-ranging reactions:

• Fans: Cowboy fans are divided. Many express gratitude for nearly two decades of consistency and memorable moments, while others argue that the program had grown stale under his leadership.
• Players and Alumni: Former players, many of whom still credit Gundy for their careers, have begun sharing tributes on social media, praising his loyalty and impact.
• National Analysts: Across college football, analysts are calling the move both “bold” and “risky.” Firing a coach with Gundy’s résumé is rare, but as one ESPN analyst put it, “Sometimes programs choose disruption in pursuit of evolution.”

The Search for a Successor

Oklahoma State will now turn to one of the most important coaching searches in its history. With conference realignment reshaping the college football landscape, the Cowboys must hire someone capable of keeping OSU among the Big 12’s elite.

Early names being floated include:

• Kalen DeBoer (Washington/Alabama) – though unlikely, he’s the type of high-profile name OSU boosters may dream of.
• Sonny Dykes (TCU) – a proven Big 12 winner with a strong offensive identity.
• Brent Brennan (Arizona) – a rising coach who has proven he can rebuild programs.
• Alex Grinch (former OU/DC) – though controversial, he has deep ties to the state.
• Up-and-coming assistants – The Cowboys could also look for the next young offensive innovator, mirroring what schools like Oklahoma and USC did in their past hires.

Whoever takes over will inherit a program with strong facilities, a passionate fan base, and the resources to contend for Big 12 titles—but also big shoes to fill.

Gundy’s Legacy

Regardless of how fans feel about his firing, Mike Gundy’s legacy in Stillwater is secure. He is synonymous with Oklahoma State football, having not only played quarterback for the Cowboys but also spending nearly his entire adult life on the sidelines in orange and black.

His fiery “I’m a man, I’m 40!” rant in 2007 remains one of the most iconic press conference moments in college football history. More importantly, he gave Oklahoma State fans two decades of consistent winning, highlighted by the magical 2011 run that left the Cowboys just inches away from playing in the BCS National Championship.

For Stillwater, Gundy’s impact goes beyond wins and losses. He elevated the program into the national conversation and gave fans a reason to believe Oklahoma State could go toe-to-toe with bluebloods like Oklahoma and Texas.

Conclusion

The firing of Mike Gundy is a turning point for Oklahoma State football. It closes the book on the most successful era in program history while opening the door to a future full of uncertainty. The decision reflects the changing expectations in college athletics, where tradition and loyalty often take a backseat to the relentless pursuit of progress.

As OSU begins its search for a new leader, fans will reflect on what Gundy built: a winning culture, unforgettable memories, and a legacy that will forever be tied to Stillwater. For better or worse, Mike Gundy was Oklahoma State football for nearly 20 years.

Now, the Cowboys face their next chapter without the man who defined them.