Mike Gundy is undeniably a football guy, and as the head coach of Oklahoma State, he has proven that time and again. With the 2025 season approaching, Gundy is gearing up for his 21st year at the helm of the Cowboys. It’s safe to say he’s seen it all in college football, and his passion for the game is palpable.
Reflections on a Tough Season
Gundy’s enthusiasm for football is not just a front; it permeates every aspect of his life. He admits that even in the quiet of the night, when most people are fast asleep, his mind is racing with thoughts about the game. “I still wake up in the middle of the night and football is on my mind,” he shared. “Unfortunately, at my age, when I have to get up and go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, walking toward the bathroom and walking back from the bathroom, football is on my mind. I wish it wasn’t, but it is.”
This dedication, however, comes in the wake of a disappointing 3-9 season in 2024, the worst of his tenure. Gundy, who boasts a career record of 169-88, is not one to shy away from the harsh realities of the sport. “The season that we had last year is not going to sit well with me,” he expressed. It’s clear that Gundy is not one to accept mediocrity, and he is determined to turn things around.
Looking Ahead
So, what’s next for Gundy and the Cowboys? The focus is on moving forward and building a stronger team. “But I get it. We’re moving forward,” he said. “Sometimes that happens, you know, 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 emphasizes the importance of commitment within the organization, stating, “There’s a tremendous amount of commitment in our organization, and it starts at the very top.” His goal is to assemble a coaching staff that embodies energy and passion while also bringing diversity to their approach in this ever-evolving landscape of college football.
The Path to Success
As Gundy looks to resurrect the program, the quest for that elusive Big 12 title remains at the forefront. Oklahoma State has not won the conference since 2011 and has yet to make an appearance in the College Football Playoff. The stakes are high, and the pressure is on, but Gundy is ready to tackle the challenge head-on.
“Sometimes it’s about finding the right mix of players and coaches who can work together to create something special,” he noted. With a history of seasons that finished at 12-2 and 10-4 in 2021 and 2023 respectively, there’s no denying that Oklahoma State has the potential to bounce back. The question remains: Can they harness that potential and turn it into success on the field?
Building a Stronger Team
In his quest to revitalize the Cowboys, Gundy is focused on fostering a culture of resilience and determination. He understands that the road ahead will not be easy, but he believes in the power of teamwork and commitment. “My message to them is that we have to be committed to the process,” he explained. “It’s not just about winning games; it’s about building a program that can sustain success over the long haul.”
Gundy’s approach to coaching is rooted in his love for the game. He is not just a strategist; he is a mentor who genuinely cares about the players he coaches. He knows that success in college football goes beyond Xs and Os; it’s about building relationships and creating a supportive environment where players can thrive.
The Future of Oklahoma State Football
As the 2025 season approaches, the excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. Gundy’s unwavering commitment to Oklahoma State football is inspiring, and his vision for the future is clear. He is determined to lead the Cowboys back to prominence in the Big 12 and beyond, and he won’t settle for anything less.
With a renewed focus on teamwork, passion, and commitment, Gundy believes that the Cowboys can rise to the occasion. As he prepares for the upcoming season, one thing is certain: Mike Gundy is all in, and he’s ready to make waves in college football once again.
In the end, it’s about more than just wins and losses; it’s about the love of the game, the thrill of competition, and the bonds formed along the way. Oklahoma State football has a bright future ahead, and with Gundy at the helm, the journey promises to be an exciting one.
