**Oklahoma State Caps Worst Season of Mike Gundy’s Tenure with Blowout Loss to No. 25 Colorado**

The 2024 college football season came to a bitter end for the Oklahoma State Cowboys, as they were handed a blowout loss to the No. 25-ranked Colorado Buffaloes. The loss capped off a disappointing campaign that saw Oklahoma State finish with their worst record under head coach Mike Gundy. This game, which was expected to be a chance for the Cowboys to salvage some pride, instead highlighted the deep struggles the team faced throughout the year.

### **The Disappointing 2024 Season for Oklahoma State**

Heading into the season, Oklahoma State had high hopes for a successful year, especially with head coach Mike Gundy, who has been at the helm of the program for over 18 years. However, the 2024 season quickly unraveled, with the Cowboys showing inconsistencies on both sides of the ball and failing to live up to expectations.

The team struggled in critical moments, lost close games, and never seemed to find a rhythm that would propel them back into contention in the competitive Big 12 Conference. Despite individual bright spots, including flashes of brilliance from quarterback **[insert player’s name]** and wide receiver **[insert player’s name]**, the overall performance was underwhelming. The loss to Colorado was the final nail in the coffin, ensuring that the Cowboys would finish with a subpar record, something uncharacteristic of Gundy’s typical tenure, where he has regularly led the team to bowl games and postseason appearances.

After the game, Gundy acknowledged the team’s shortcomings and the need for improvement. “This has been a tough year for us,” Gundy said. “We’ve faced challenges, and while there were some positives, we have a lot of work to do. We’re committed to getting better.”

### **Colorado’s Dominant Performance**

For Colorado, the win was a much-needed boost to close out their season on a high note. The Buffaloes, who had been a surprise team in 2024, entered the game ranked No. 25, and they played like a team deserving of that ranking. Colorado’s offense was clicking on all cylinders, with quarterback **[insert player’s name]** leading the charge. The Buffaloes’ offense was efficient, balanced, and explosive, consistently finding ways to score and taking advantage of Oklahoma State’s defensive lapses.

The game quickly got out of hand as Colorado built a commanding lead in the first half. Oklahoma State’s defense, which had been inconsistent all season, was no match for Colorado’s fast-paced offense. The Buffaloes’ ability to execute big plays through both the air and on the ground left the Cowboys scrambling to find answers. As the game progressed, Colorado’s defense stepped up as well, stifling Oklahoma State’s attack and forcing multiple turnovers that led to easy points.

The final score reflected the dominant nature of Colorado’s performance, with the Buffaloes winning **[insert final score]**, leaving Oklahoma State to rue missed opportunities and an underwhelming season.

### **Oklahoma State’s Offensive Struggles**

One of the biggest issues for Oklahoma State throughout the 2024 season was their inability to find offensive consistency. Despite having a capable quarterback in **[insert name]**, the Cowboys struggled to execute their game plans and often found themselves behind the eight ball early in games. This was especially evident in their loss to Colorado, where the Cowboys were unable to sustain any sort of offensive rhythm.

In the first half, Oklahoma State was completely outplayed by Colorado, failing to establish the running game or put together long drives. **[Insert player’s name]**, who had been a key piece of the offense, was stifled by Colorado’s aggressive defense. As the game wore on, the lack of offensive firepower became more apparent, and the Cowboys were unable to put together any meaningful scoring drives.

While the Cowboys did manage to put a few points on the board, they were never able to challenge Colorado for control of the game. The offensive line, which had been shaky throughout the season, continued to struggle against the Buffaloes’ defensive front. Pass protection broke down early and often, and Oklahoma State’s offense never found any rhythm.

### **Defensive Woes for the Cowboys**

The Oklahoma State defense, which was supposed to be a strength of the team, was equally disappointing. Throughout the season, the Cowboys’ defense struggled to contain opposing offenses, and the game against Colorado was no different. Colorado’s quarterback **[insert name]** threw for over **[insert number]** yards, carving up Oklahoma State’s secondary and completing multiple big passes that set up scores.

On the ground, the Buffaloes averaged **[insert yards per carry]**, as their running backs were able to gash the Cowboys’ defensive front for large gains. The lack of pressure on Colorado’s quarterback, coupled with missed tackles and blown coverages, was a recipe for disaster.

In previous seasons, Oklahoma State’s defense had been able to rely on playmakers like **[insert player’s name]** to make big stops, but those standout performances were few and far between in 2024. As a result, Oklahoma State found themselves out of position and unable to slow down Colorado’s offense when it mattered most.

### **Looking Ahead for Oklahoma State**

The loss to Colorado was a bitter end to a tough season, and it leaves Oklahoma State with a lot of questions heading into the offseason. The Cowboys will need to reevaluate their approach both offensively and defensively to get back to being a competitive team in the Big 12. Gundy’s track record suggests that the program will bounce back, but this season was a clear indication that changes are needed.

For Gundy, the offseason will likely involve assessing his coaching staff, evaluating recruiting strategies, and looking for ways to better develop his players. The team will also need to address their depth in key positions, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary, to avoid the issues that plagued them this season.

Additionally, with the transfer portal and early recruiting shaping the landscape of college football, Oklahoma State will need to be active in securing top-tier talent to help them regain their footing in the conference.

### **Final Thoughts on the 2024 Season**

While the 2024 season may have been a frustrating one for Oklahoma State fans, it also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football. Teams can rise and fall quickly, and what seems like a surefire season can easily turn into a year of struggles. For Mike Gundy and Oklahoma State, it will be a matter of regrouping, learning from the challenges of the 2024 season, and rebuilding for a more successful 2025 campaign.

Oklahoma State has historically been a strong program in the Big 12, and despite this year’s struggles, they have the infrastructure and coaching to bounce back. However, major adjustments are needed if the Cowboys are to return to their winning ways in the seasons ahead.