EUGENE, Ore. — Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy addressed the media following an overwhelming 69-3 loss to the No. 6 Oregon Ducks on Saturday, marking OSU’s worst defeat since 1907. The defeat extended the Cowboys’ losing streak against FBS opponents to 10 games, raising concerns about the trajectory of the program.
Prior to the game, Gundy had sparked controversy by commenting on Oregon’s financial investments in its football program, specifically citing the Ducks’ significant spending — estimated by Gundy at $40 million — on their roster last year. The remarks were intended as a compliment to Oregon’s commitment to success amid the shifting college football landscape influenced by NIL deals and the transfer portal. However, Oregon’s head coach Dan Lanning interpreted Gundy’s remarks as motivation for his team, saying, “It never requires extra motivation for an opportunity to go out and kick ass, but it never hurts when somebody pours gasoline on the fire.”
After the lopsided loss, Gundy clarified his previous statements, emphasizing respect for Oregon’s achievements while acknowledging the need for Oklahoma State to improve fundamentally. “When I made that comment, I was complimenting Oregon for what they had done,” he said. “Second thing is, we’ve made commitments also, but we have to be better and fundamentally sound and execute.”
Reflecting on the game, Gundy admitted that his team was overwhelmed by Oregon’s athleticism and execution. “Sometimes you’re going to play people that have the ability to run away from you. Well, then we’ve got to look at that and see where we’re at,” he explained. “But we didn’t play good enough, in the systems that we had, to put ourselves in that position.”
The Ducks jumped out to a fast start, scoring two touchdowns within the first two minutes and dominating on both sides of the ball. Oregon’s defense showcased their strength with two sacks, four tackles for loss, and two interceptions returned for touchdowns.
Following the game, Gundy also addressed Cowboys fans directly, urging them to stay loyal amid the difficult stretch. “My message to the fans is to stay with us,” he said. “I understand fans get frustrated—that’s part of competitive athletics—but this group is disappointed and they’re going to work hard. We would love for them to come out and support their team, and we’ll try to do our part.”
This crushing loss highlights challenges facing Oklahoma State football, as the Cowboys search for ways to compete against top-tier programs with deeper resources. The team will look to rebound as they prepare for their upcoming game against Tulsa on September 19, aiming to end a year-long drought without a victory against an FBS opponent.