Mike Gundy is expected to continue as the head coach of Oklahoma State University after a challenging negotiation with university officials regarding his contract, as reported by Brett McMurphy of The Action Network and ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The conflict revolved around Oklahoma State’s unsatisfactory 3-9 season record last year and a suggested modification to Gundy’s […]
Mike Gundy is expected to continue as the head coach of Oklahoma State University after a challenging negotiation with university officials regarding his contract, as reported by Brett McMurphy of The Action Network and ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
The conflict revolved around Oklahoma State’s unsatisfactory 3-9 season record last year and a suggested modification to Gundy’s contract.
Breaking: Mike Gundy will stay at Oklahoma State, following an agreement in principle for a restructured contract, sources informed @ActionNetworkHQ. The Board of Regents convened Friday to discuss Gundy’s job status. Gundy’s 18 consecutive winning seasons are the 9th longest in CFB history…
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) December 7, 2024
The Cowboys’ on-field performance, which included a winless conference record, resulted in discontent among fans and officials. Gundy, who operates under a rolling five-year contract with a $7.75 million base salary, was reportedly under pressure from the administration to accept a pay cut.
Rumors suggested that the savings from the proposed salary reductions would be directed toward enhancing the university’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) programs. If Gundy had declined to renegotiate, there was speculation about his potential termination for cause, which could have saved the institution over $25 million that would be owed if he was dismissed without cause.
In light of the disappointing season, Gundy and Oklahoma State initiated substantial changes within his coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn and defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo were dismissed. The team’s deficiencies were apparent, as the Cowboys allowed an average of 35.6 points per game and gave up around 215 rushing yards per game, placing them among the poorest defenses in college football.
On the offensive side, inconsistency at quarterback and a marked drop in production from running back Ollie Gordon only intensified the team’s difficulties.
Notwithstanding the challenges, Gundy’s time at Oklahoma State is among the most accomplished in the program’s history. The 2024 season was only the second instance in 20 years where he failed to reach a bowl game, and his continuation indicates the administration’s optimism for improvement. It remains uncertain whether the changes and a renewed focus on NIL will enable the Cowboys to compete again in the Big 12.
It will be intriguing to observe if Gundy can steer the program back on course next season or if tensions will escalate further in Stillwater.
