The recent struggles of the Oklahoma State football team, culminating in a disappointing 0–9 Big 12 record for the 2024 season, have led to mounting frustrations among fans. These fans have begun to question whether it is time for the university to part ways with head coach Mike Gundy, a longtime leader of the Cowboys football program. The situation has sparked intense debate among supporters, alumni, and analysts alike, as Gundy’s tenure, while largely successful, has reached a crossroads.
Mike Gundy, who has been the head coach at Oklahoma State since 2005, has seen his share of triumphs, including multiple Big 12 championship game appearances and consistent bowl eligibility. Under his leadership, the Cowboys became a perennial contender in the conference, and Gundy earned recognition for his ability to recruit talent and develop players. However, the 2024 season has been a sharp contrast to those successes, as the team has struggled in nearly every aspect of the game, culminating in the winless conference record.
The poor performance has led to growing discontent among fans, many of whom are calling for change at the top. Some argue that Gundy’s once-innovative approach to coaching has become stale and predictable, failing to adapt to the changing landscape of college football. With the increased competition in the Big 12, especially with teams like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas State, some believe that Gundy is no longer the right man to lead Oklahoma State into the future. Fans have expressed concerns about his offensive strategy, especially as the program’s production in recent years has not met expectations.
Moreover, the lack of progress in recruiting elite talent and developing a consistent quarterback has added fuel to the fire. Gundy’s reputation for developing quarterbacks was once a hallmark of his coaching career, but the recent lack of standout players at the position has left fans wondering whether his best days are behind him. As new blood enters the Big 12, the perception that Oklahoma State’s program is stagnating has become more widespread.
On the other hand, there are still those who believe that Gundy deserves more time to right the ship. They point to his long history with the program and his ability to weather difficult seasons before. Gundy has demonstrated an uncanny ability to recruit and develop players, and many argue that one rough season should not erase years of solid work. Moreover, they emphasize that the 2024 season’s struggles may have been caused by a combination of injuries, roster changes, and other external factors, rather than systemic issues that cannot be fixed.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to fire Mike Gundy will rest with Oklahoma State’s athletic administration, who must balance fan frustration with the long-term stability of the program. Gundy’s fate may be determined not only by his performance in the upcoming season but also by how well he can adapt to the new challenges that college football presents.
For now, the debate continues, with fans divided on whether it’s time for a fresh start or if Gundy’s proven leadership deserves another chance to turn the program around.
