Mike Gundy Delivers Fiery Rant Amidst Oklahoma State’s Struggles
During his weekly availability session Monday, the longtime Oklahoma State coach took a hard left turn while discussing the trials of the Cowboys’ disappointing 3-6 season so far. While diving into the reasons why Oklahoma State — ranked 17th in the nation before the year began — has struggled so mightily, Gundy went on an elongated rant that told angry fans and program critics to look in the mirror before pointing fingers.
“Unfortunately in life, most people are weak, and as soon as things start to not go as good as what they thought, they fall apart and they panic,” Gundy said. “And then they want to point the finger and blame other people. You see it in everyday life. People do it all the time.
“That’s why I refuse to watch the TV and watch the news because I get tired of people complaining and b—-ing about this and that versus just doing something about it and trying to figure out a way to make it better.”
The Cowboys dropped to 0-6 in Big 12 Conference play this season after a 42-21 thumping at home to Arizona State. The team’s 18-year-long streak of bowl game appearances could end this week at TCU should Oklahoma State drop its seventh straight. The Cowboys’ final two games of the year are at home against Texas Tech on Nov. 23 and on the road at Colorado on Nov. 29.
Oklahoma State hasn’t had a losing season since Gundy’s first year in charge in 2005 when the team went 4-7. This year’s six-game losing streak is the program’s longest since 2000. Gundy’s turn toward the detractors continued.
“In most cases, the people that are negative and voicing their opinion are the same ones that can’t pay their own bills. They’re not taking care of themselves. They’re not taking care of their own family. They’re not taking care of their own job,” he said. “But they have an obligation to speak out and complain about others because it makes them feel better.
“But then, when they go to bed at night, they’re the same failure that they were before they said anything negative about anybody else.”
Gundy is the highest-paid coach in the Big 12. According to USA Today, Gundy has a $7.75 million salary in 2024. Oklahoma State is the worst power conference defense in the country through nine games giving up 503 total yards of offense per game. The Cowboys are ranked 132 out of 133 FBS teams in total defense.
“I think what’s important for all the Oklahoma State fans to know is that we’re very aware of what’s going on, and at some point in life, we all have to put trust in somebody,” Gundy said. “And I think they need to trust that we have a good plan for what’s going on here in the big picture, and we have answers. Sometimes they’re not short term. Sometimes they might be long term answers.
“And then secondly, the very best thing that can do, as I tell our players, is 100 percent be in. Buy in. You got to be on somebody’s team. Can’t go through life yourself.”
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(Photo: Chris Gardner / Getty Images)
Interview Between Time.News Editor and Coaching Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.News! Today, we’re discussing the recent fiery rant from Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy, as the Cowboys face significant struggles this season. Joining us is Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a sports psychology expert who specializes in coaching dynamics and athlete mentality. Thank you for being here, Dr. Mitchell.
Dr. Mitchell: Thank you for having me. It’s a fascinating topic, and I appreciate the opportunity to dive into it.
Editor: Let’s get right to it. Gundy’s comments about weakness and the tendency of people to point fingers when things go wrong—what’s your take on that perspective?
Dr. Mitchell: Gundy’s rant touches on a common psychological reaction in sports and life. It’s not unusual for individuals to deflect blame when faced with failure. This reaction can stem from a place of vulnerability, where people feel the pressure mounting and look for a scapegoat.
Editor: He pointed out that he dislikes watching the news because of the constant complaints he perceives. Is there a psychological aspect to this need to disengage?
Dr. Mitchell: Absolutely. Cognitive overload can occur when one is constantly exposed to negativity, be it from media or critics. Disengagement can be a coping mechanism to maintain mental clarity and focus. However, in Gundy’s case, there’s also an element of leadership. By emphasizing personal accountability, he might be aiming to foster resilience within his team.
Editor: It’s interesting that he mentioned searching for solutions rather than wallowing in complaints. Do you think this attitude is beneficial for his team, especially during a disappointing season?
Dr. Mitchell: Definitely. Encouraging a solution-oriented mindset can instill a sense of empowerment and agency. Athletes are often most successful when they’re focused on what they can control, rather than external pressures. If Gundy can redirect his team’s focus towards improvement rather than dwelling on losses, it could potentially foster growth and turnaround in performance.
Editor: Reflecting on the team’s current season, where they have a six-game losing streak—their longest since 2000—how important is it for a coach to maintain composure during such times?
Dr. Mitchell: Maintaining composure is critical. A coach’s demeanor sets the tone for the team. If Gundy can exhibit calmness and steadiness amidst adversity, it instills confidence in the players. Conversely, if a coach succumbs to despair or frustration, it can create a ripple effect, influencing the team’s morale and performance.
Editor: Gundy’s comments have ignited a conversation among fans and critics alike. How do you see the impact of public and fan pressure on a coach’s psyche during tough seasons?
Dr. Mitchell: Public pressure can be immensely challenging. Coaches often feel the weight of expectations from both fans and administration. It can lead to stress and even fear of job loss, affecting decision-making and performance. Coaches must find ways to filter out the noise while remaining receptive to constructive criticism.
Editor: As we approach the Cowboys’ critical matchups, including the potential end of their bowl streak, what should be Gundy’s approach moving forward?
Dr. Mitchell: Gundy should prioritize clear communication and set realistic, incremental goals for his team. Encouraging players to focus on specific aspects of their game rather than the end result can help reduce anxiety. Moreover, cultivating a team environment that supports one another through challenges can build resilience, which is essential in these pressing situations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mitchell, for your insights. Gundy’s passion and frustration are palpable, but your perspective highlights the complexities behind the scenes, especially in such a challenging season.
Dr. Mitchell: Thank you! It’s important to remember that behind every angry rant, there’s often a deeper context that deserves our understanding. Let’s hope for the best for Oklahoma State as they navigate through their challenges.
Editor: Certainly! We’ll be watching closely as the season unfolds. Thank you for joining us today!