Football
OSU Recruits, Former Players React to Mike Gundy Spurning Tennessee
Mike Gundy shut down any talk that he might be Tennessee-bound on Tuesday when he announced he was remaining with Oklahoma State and spurning the Vols, tweeting “Cowboy for life!” and ending any fear among the OSU faithful that he might be Knoxville-bound.
His decision is a big win for OSU short term just in terms of keeping continuity with the team and the program he’s built, but also in recruiting, as the early signing period is mere weeks away now.
I talked with a few Cowboy recruits who shared their reaction in the wake of the news.
“It’s great to know someone has so much heart for their program,” Cowboy QB pledge Spencer Sanders told Pistols Firing, adding that he’s still locked in with OSU despite the rumor mill churning in overtime on Tuesday.
OSU offensive line commit Tyrese Williams shared a similar sentiment in a lengthy text message he shared with me.
“I think Coach Gundy turning down those offers and staying in Stillwater really portrays his love for the culture there at OSU and is all about being a cowboy. Not only is it important for coaches to have a sense of commitment in their recruits but for us as the recruits, having that commitment from our future head coach really goes a long way.
With that being said, I am more than excited to hear that he will be staying home with aspirations that we can push further ahead and build on all the success he’s previously brought to Oklahoma State University. -GoPokes?”
“That’s why I bought in to this program!! #CowboyUp” tweeted four-star 2019 TE pledge Grayson Boomer.
That’s why I bought in to this program!! #CowboyUp
— Grayson Boomer (@BoomerGrayson) November 29, 2017
“He made a great decision sir,” OSU corner commit JayVeon Cardwell told me. “I definitely would love to be coached by him. He’s without a doubt one of the best. And I’m very excited that he’s staying with us.”
“I’m glad Coach Gundy chose to stay and not let the media get out of hand! People were telling me not to worry anyway,” added 2018 JUCO defensive end commit Michael Scott.
“He’s a great coach and he will continue to be a great coach for OSU,” said former OSU offensive lineman Evan Epstein. “I just wish more people understood this is how the business is done and it’s not personal. He’s not any less loyal and true, he’s simply a successful coach who has to pay attention to his career and lifestyle. With that being said I’m glad we got him and I’m ready to move forward and I hope he is too.”
“This decision is very beneficial for the brand, mostly, and for the football culture there,” said former OSU linebacker Ryan Simmons. “There is no other coach better for OSU than Coach Gundy.”
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