Mike Gundy Fired After Over Two Decades at Oklahoma State

STILLWATER, Okla. — Mike Gundy was fired as head coach of Oklahoma State University football on Tuesday. After 21 seasons, Gundy’s dismissal follows a disappointing start to the 2025 season, where the Cowboys recorded just one win in their first four games.

The move comes after a 52-0 loss to Oregon and a narrow defeat against Tulsa, leading school officials to reevaluate the direction of the program. Athletic director Chad Weiberg announced the decision during a press conference, attributing it to unmet expectations.

“We all have high expectations for OSU football because of Mike Gundy,” Weiberg said. “Unfortunately, the results of the last year have not met the standard.”

Gundy has been a significant figure in OSU football history, becoming the program’s all-time winningest coach with a total of 170 wins. However, his ability to adapt to the changing landscape of college football, particularly with issues related to the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, came into question.

Under Gundy, OSU experienced a renaissance, consistently reaching bowl games and winning multiple conference titles. Yet challenges began to multiply following the departure of key players to larger programs offering more lucrative deals. This financial pressure was further compounded by the death of longtime benefactor T. Boone Pickens in 2019.

During a press conference earlier this year, Gundy highlighted the struggles of keeping up with the current college football environment, stating, “It’s like being in an argument with your wife. And you know you’re right. It makes zero difference. You’re wrong.” This sentiment echoed concerns about his preparedness for the current demands of the sport.

The Cowboys’ recent performances have failed to meet the expectations set by Gundy’s previous successes. Following the recent losses, an informal source remarked, “I think there was a faction of people that just wanted to see change.” Upon his departure, Gundy’s coaching staff faced a rising wave of uncertainty.

Many former players expressed disappointment at the timing of the decision, which they felt did not reflect the respect Gundy earned during his longtime tenure. “I think it’s a slap in the face to do it when they did it,” said one former player, hinting at the chaos that may ensue following his exit.

As interim head coach Doug Meacham steps in, the university now faces the challenge of filling the leadership void left by Gundy. “We’ve proven that we can win here,” Weiberg stated about searching for his successor, underscoring the urgency to revitalize the program amid heightened competition.