After a challenging 2024 season, the Oklahoma State Cowboys are ready for a fresh start. Head coach Mike Gundy has decided to shake things up, and one of the most significant changes is the hiring of Todd Grantham as the new defensive coordinator. This move comes after a year that saw the Cowboys struggle defensively, ranking 133rd in total defense and 126th in scoring defense. With an average of 500.6 yards allowed per game and 35.6 points given up, it was clear that a change was necessary.
Finding the Right Fit
Gundy’s decision to bring Grantham on board was not based on a long-standing relationship. Instead, it stemmed from trusted recommendations from prominent coaches in the industry. Gundy emphasized the importance of these recommendations, stating, “I visited with some pretty prominent coaches, and these guys have extensive backgrounds on the defensive side of the ball.” He sought their advice on who they would hire if they were in his shoes, and Grantham’s name came up repeatedly.
“I don’t know how many people to bring into this,” Gundy explained. “But I also don’t want to tell you something that’s not true.” It was this careful consideration and reliance on trusted opinions that led him to Grantham.
A New Era for the Defense
With Grantham stepping in as the fourth defensive coordinator in five seasons, there’s a sense of urgency to turn things around. The Cowboys’ defense has struggled in recent years, and Gundy is looking for someone who can take charge. In his extensive interview with Grantham, Gundy was impressed by the defensive coach’s organization and vision. “He laid everything out in front of me,” Gundy recalled. “Had a plan for this. ‘This is what I want to do. This is how I’m gonna do it.’”
Grantham’s experience is extensive. He began his coaching career in 1990 as a defensive assistant at Virginia Tech. After a journey through both college football and the NFL, he earned his first defensive coordinator position with the Cleveland Browns in 2005. Since then, he has held similar roles at Georgia, Louisville, Mississippi State, and Florida. His track record suggests that he knows how to build a formidable defense.
Building Trust and Communication
One of the key factors in Gundy’s decision was Grantham’s ability to communicate effectively. “Essentially, when I walked away from the interview, he convinced me that what I needed was a head coach on defense,” Gundy said. This statement highlights Gundy’s desire for a defensive leader who can take ownership of the unit and execute a game plan.
“I was very up front in communicating that to these guys,” Gundy continued. “Todd convinced me that he could be the head coach on defense, and I could let him do his job.” This level of trust is crucial in college football, where clear communication can make or break a season.
The Road Ahead
As Grantham takes the helm, the expectations are high. The Cowboys’ defense has struggled to find its identity, and Gundy believes Grantham can help establish a new standard. The upcoming season will be a test of Grantham’s ability to implement his vision and turn around a unit that has faced significant challenges.
In a sport where every yard counts and every point matters, Gundy’s faith in Grantham is a calculated risk. But with a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience, Grantham has the potential to reshape the Cowboys’ defense. The question remains: can he transform the team into a defensive powerhouse?
Looking Forward
The Cowboys’ fanbase is eager for change, and with Grantham at the helm, there’s hope for a brighter future. The upcoming season will not only be a test for Grantham but also for Gundy as he navigates this new chapter in Oklahoma State football. Can they rise from the ashes of last season’s struggles? Only time will tell.
As the Cowboys gear up for the next season, the excitement is palpable. Fans are ready to see how Grantham’s strategies will manifest on the field. Will the Cowboys finally find their defensive rhythm? With Gundy’s trust in Grantham and a renewed focus on defense, the stage is set for an exciting season ahead. The journey may be challenging, but with the right leadership, anything is possible in college football.
