Mike Gundy, the head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, has long been a polarizing figure in college football, especially among fans of the rival Oklahoma Sooners. While the Bedlam Series rivalry often intensifies opinions, there have been instances where Sooners fans have acknowledged Gundy’s coaching prowess.
In November 2023, during the final scheduled Bedlam game, Gundy led the Cowboys to a 27-21 victory over the Sooners. This win was particularly significant as it secured bragging rights in the historic rivalry, which was set to conclude due to conference realignment. Gundy’s ability to motivate and prepare his team for such a monumental game did not go unnoticed, even among the Oklahoma fanbase. Some Sooners supporters begrudgingly respected Gundy’s achievement, recognizing the magnitude of winning the last Bedlam matchup. As Gundy himself noted, “It’s a big deal. I mean, this is the last Bedlam. All the Oklahoma State people have put up with a lot of crap for 100 years. They’ve had their butt kicked a bunch. Now they’re going to walk around and say we won the last game.” citeturn0search1
However, Gundy’s relationship with fans, including those of the Sooners, has been complex. In November 2024, amid a challenging season where the Cowboys faced a six-game losing streak, Gundy made controversial remarks about critical fans, suggesting that those who were negative “can’t pay their own bills” and are “the same failure that they were before they said anything negative about anybody else.” citeturn0search0 These comments drew widespread criticism, not only from Oklahoma State supporters but also from the broader college football community, including Sooners fans who viewed his statements as unprofessional and dismissive.
Gundy later issued an apology, stating, “I apologize to those who my comments during Monday’s media call offended. My intent was not to offend any of our fans who have supported us and this program through the years.” citeturn0search0 Despite the apology, the incident left a lasting impression, leading some to question his leadership and sensitivity towards the fanbase.
Interestingly, Gundy has received praise from notable figures outside the immediate Oklahoma-Oklahoma State rivalry. In July 2024, Deion Sanders, the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, referred to Gundy as “a darn legend” during the Big 12 Media Days. citeturn0search5 Such accolades from peers highlight Gundy’s respected status in the coaching community, even if opinions among rival fanbases remain divided.
In conclusion, while the fierce rivalry between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma State Cowboys often colors perceptions, there have been moments where Sooners fans have recognized Mike Gundy’s coaching acumen. His successes, particularly in significant games like the final Bedlam matchup, have earned him begrudging respect. However, controversies stemming from his public comments have also led to criticism, reflecting the complex and multifaceted views held by fans on both sides of the rivalry.
