Mike Gundy, the long-standing head coach of Oklahoma State football, is gearing up for the 2025 season with a renewed sense of purpose. After a challenging 2024 campaign that saw the Cowboys finish with a disappointing 3-9 record—the worst in Gundy’s two-decade tenure—he’s ready to embrace the future and lead his team back to prominence in the Big 12.
Rebuilding the Cowboys
Gundy acknowledges the difficulties of the past season, stating, “We knew we were going to be in a rebuilding stage, numbers wise, based on the players we had this year.” It’s clear that the team faced significant challenges, especially with a roster heavily dominated by seniors. The transition to a younger squad will require patience and strategic planning, but Gundy remains optimistic. “I think that the fans will be really excited about Oklahoma State football,” he added, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the program.
The coach’s track record speaks for itself. With a career record of 169-88, Gundy has led the Cowboys to impressive seasons, including finishes of 12-2 and 10-4 in 2021 and 2023, respectively. However, the 2024 season was a stark reminder that even the most seasoned coaches can face setbacks. “Sometimes that happens, you know,” Gundy reflected. “I’ve been fortunate enough to be the head coach here a long time, and we had a season that we didn’t like, but, you know, maybe sometimes that’s going to happen.”
Gundy’s commitment to the future
Despite the struggles, Gundy’s enthusiasm for the program remains palpable. He expressed a strong desire to move forward, stating, “There’s a tremendous amount of commitment in our organization, and it starts at the very top.” This commitment is not just about winning games; it’s about fostering a culture of resilience and adaptability within the team.
In his discussions with university officials, Gundy made it clear that he is deeply involved in shaping the future of Oklahoma State football. “I didn’t have a sit down with the regents,” he clarified. “That’s not protocol, but Dr. Shrum and Chad and I had really good conversations about the future, about the portal, about NIL, about revenue sharing—things that are very important in dealing with college athletics today.” This proactive approach shows Gundy’s dedication to navigating the evolving landscape of college football.
Energizing the team
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Gundy is focused on assembling a coaching staff that embodies energy and passion. “The one thing that I tried to accomplish in putting a staff together was a group of guys that had energy, passion, and could give us some diversity in dealing with players,” he explained. This diversity is crucial in today’s college football environment, where player dynamics and expectations are constantly changing.
Gundy’s vision for the team extends beyond just the X’s and O’s. He understands that building relationships with players is essential in fostering a successful program. “It really gave us a chance to visit and look to the future and what’s best for our athletic department and, with me, obviously, particularly football,” he said. This holistic approach to coaching is what sets Gundy apart and keeps him motivated year after year.
Fans and community support
Oklahoma State football has a passionate fan base that plays a pivotal role in the program’s success. Gundy recognizes the importance of engaging with fans and keeping them excited about the future. “My energy level, my commitment to Oklahoma State, to Oklahoma State football, is stronger every year,” he stated. This connection with the community is vital as the team embarks on its journey to rebuild and reclaim its status in the conference.
The Cowboys’ faithful have witnessed the highs and lows of the program, and Gundy is determined to bring them back to the glory days. With the right mindset and a clear vision, he believes that Oklahoma State can rise again. “But I get it. We’re moving forward,” he reiterated, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead to 2025
As the 2025 season approaches, the excitement surrounding Oklahoma State football is palpable. Gundy’s commitment to rebuilding the program, coupled with his extensive experience, positions the Cowboys for a promising future. The challenge will be significant, but with a focus on energy, passion, and community engagement, Gundy is ready to lead Oklahoma State back to the top of the Big 12.
In a landscape where change is the only constant, Gundy’s ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial. The road ahead may be tough, but with the right mindset and support from fans and the university, the Cowboys have the potential to rise again. As Gundy himself said, “We had a season that we didn’t like, but, you know, maybe sometimes that’s going to happen.” What matters now is how they respond. The future of Oklahoma State football is bright, and the journey is just beginning.
