Mike Gundy leaves Oklahoma State after two decades at the helm

Oklahoma State announced Tuesday the immediate dismissal of Mike Gundy, the second-longest-tenured head coach in the FBS.

“Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy’s leadership,” athletic director Chad Weiberg said in a statement. “We are grateful for everything he did to raise the standard and show what is possible for Oklahoma State football.”

At 58, Gundy was in his 21st season leading the Cowboys, second only to Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz in continuous service. His departure comes just days after a 19–12 loss to Tulsa and less than 24 hours after he publicly stated his “100 percent” intention to remain in the job.

During his tenure, Gundy compiled a record of 170–90, including eight seasons with at least 10 wins. The peak came in 2011, when he captured the Big 12 title and guided the team to No. 3 in the AP rankings after defeating Stanford in the Fiesta Bowl.

University president Jim Hess emphasized:
“This is a pivotal moment for our university. Coach Gundy dedicated decades of his life to OSU, positively impacting hundreds of young athletes. His legacy will be remembered with respect.”

Offensive coordinator Doug Meacham has been named interim head coach.

Despite his long list of accomplishments, the Cowboys are in one of their worst stretches in recent history, losing 11 of their last 12 games against FBS opponents. The decline, combined with the evolving landscape of college football, weighed heavily in the administration’s decision.

The firing also triggers a 30-day window for players to enter the transfer portal, and the first departure has already been confirmed with running back Kaydin Jones withdrawing from the 2026 class.

Gundy, who played quarterback for the Cowboys from 1986 to 1989, leaves behind a legacy of transforming the program, but also one marked by controversies and high-profile moments — including his famous “I’m a man, I’m 40” rant in 2007.