Big 12: The good and bad of Mike Gundy staying in Stillwater

Oct 13, 2012; Lawrence, KS, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy on the sidelines in the first half against the Kansas Jayhawks at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Reports indicate Mike Gundy, head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, will stay in Stillwater. After being in the discussion for the vacant Tennessee job, Gundy is apparently staying put.

While the Vols are coming off a disappointing season, it is still the type of high-profile job Gundy can expect to be offered. He has turned the Pokes in to a recognizable name and lead the Cowboys to their best season in school history in 2011.

There is no reason why Gundy should not be on plenty of other schools’ radars, but if what sources are saying is true, Gundy must feel like he is in a good place.

Which for the most part, the Oklahoma State job is probably better than it has ever been. Though, that is what happens when you get a generous booster, who is willing to help out his favorite school become a national power.

Oklahoma State had a bit of a letdown after their 12-1 year last season, but Gundy has a great system in place. He had three quarterbacks, all of which could have started for the University of Texas, that he could plug in at any time and be effective.

The Pokes have, also, been phenomenal at getting talent on special teams and finding a few gems to a defense, which is relatively good for an offensive-happy conference.

Gundy staying is good news for Cowboy fans, and Sooner fans should not be upset at all he did not leave for Knoxville. Stoops can handle the coaching battle with Gundy and still is one of the best in the business, proving it with the way Oklahoma played in 2012.

Though, imagine if Gundy did leave. Vols fans would get a quality coach, and who knows how well Gundy could do in the SEC. But where would it leave Oklahoma State?

It would probably hurt recruiting. Believe it or not, but many players would love to play for Mike Gundy. He has a distinct personality, and has become a figure in college football since his outburst in 2007.

Oklahoma State could suffer under a new coach, though, Cowboy offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s system would help sustain the Pokes explosive offense.

So even if Gundy left, he would be leaving it a lot better than he found it. The program has more resources, more success, more pro potential, and more uniform combinations.

It is yet to be seen whether the Pokes can consistently produce ten-win seasons and trips to major bowl games, but under their current staff, they definitely have a chance to compete in the Big 12 conference.

So as it looks right now, Gundy will be in Stillwater for a little while longer, and whether you think it is good or bad, be happy Stoops is getting some in-state competition. Because what they’re doing down in Austin just isn’t working anymore, while Gundy has changed the perception of Oklahoma State football.