What Mike Gundy’s Exit Means for Oklahoma State After 21 Seasons

Oklahoma State Shakes College Football World with Mike Gundy’s Sudden Firing.Oklahoma State University has fired head football coach Mike Gundy. The decision ends his 21-season tenure with the Cowboys. The move comes just three games into the 2025 season.Gundy was the second-longest tenured FBS head coach. The university will pay a significant buyout for his dismissal.

Gundy’s Historic Run Ends After Rocky Start

Mike Gundy’s final game was a 19-12 loss to the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. That defeat dropped the Cowboys to a 1-2 record this year. The loss to Tulsa was a major factor in the decision.Earlier this season, Oklahoma State suffered a historic 69-3 defeat against Oregon. According to ESPN, that was the biggest loss in Gundy’s career. It was also the program’s worst margin of defeat in over a century.Gundy compiled a 170-90 record leading the Cowboys. His leadership transformed the program into a consistent competitor. Despite his long-term success, recent performance led to this change.

Search for a New Leader Begins Immediately

The coaching search starts now for Oklahoma State. This is only the second coaching change for the program this century. The early-season timing gives the school ample time to find a replacement.Speculation about Gundy’s future had grown recently. CBS Sports reported the team lost 11 of its last 12 games. This sharp decline followed a successful 10-4 season in 2023.Just days before his firing, Gundy expressed commitment to the program. He referenced his multi-year contract during a news conference. He stated his intention to continue leading the team.

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The firing of Mike Gundy marks a pivotal moment for Oklahoma State football. The program now seeks a new direction after two decades of stability. This decision will define the future of Cowboys football.

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Why was Mike Gundy fired now?

The decision followed a disappointing 1-2 start to the season. Losses to Tulsa and a historic defeat against Oregon prompted the change. The university’s leadership felt a new direction was necessary.

What is Mike Gundy’s buyout?

Reports from ESPN indicate the buyout is approximately $15 million. The amount is due because Gundy was under contract. His contract had about three and a half years remaining.

Who will coach the next game?

An interim head coach will likely be appointed quickly. The Cowboys play the Baylor Bears on September 27. The university will conduct a national search for a permanent replacement.

What was Gundy’s overall record?

He finished his Oklahoma State career with 170 wins and 90 losses. That record spans from 2005 through the 2025 season. He is the winningest coach in the program’s history.

How have fans reacted to the news?

Reactions are mixed among the fan base. Many appreciate his long service and past successes. Others believe the program needed a fresh start to compete at a higher level.