Oklahoma State Coach Mike Gundy Discusses Changes in Big 12 Football’s Identity
Gundy discusses changes in Big 12 football's identity, including its evolving emphasis on line of scrimmage play and adaptation towards styles seen in the SEC.
Oklahoma State’s head coach, Mike Gundy, boasts an impressive tenure with the program, having helmed the team since 2005 and leading them to a bowl game in 18 out of 19 seasons. Throughout his coaching journey, he’s witnessed significant transformations in college football, from the advent of the College Football Playoffs to shifts in conference dynamics, along with developments like NIL regulations and the rise of the transfer portal.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Greg McElroy on ”Always College Football,” Gundy delved into the evolving landscape of the Big 12 as the 2024 college football season looms. He highlighted a noticeable trend towards a more physical style of play in the conference, emphasizing the crucial role of trench warfare in determining game outcomes.
According to Gundy, teams in the Big 12 are increasingly prioritizing dominance in the trenches, a strategy that echoes the longstanding emphasis on line play seen in the SEC, widely regarded as college football’s premier league. With notable examples like Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and others shifting towards this approach, Gundy sees a concerted effort to emulate the SEC’s formula for success.
While acknowledging exceptions like Texas Tech’s more wide-open style of play, Gundy underscored the overall trend towards prioritizing line of scrimmage dominance on both offense and defense. This strategic shift is seen as crucial for Big 12 teams to elevate their competitiveness, especially in high-stakes non-conference matchups, where SEC teams have traditionally excelled.
As Oklahoma State eyes another shot at the Big 12 title, Gundy believes that aligning with the SEC’s emphasis on physicality could be the key to unlocking success in postseason play. With the conference continually evolving and adapting, Gundy remains optimistic about the Cowboys’ prospects for future championship contention.
