What We Learned from Mike Gundy’s Fall Camp Update

Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy gave an in-depth look at the Cowboys’ progress during fall camp, touching on everything from the quarterback competition to roster turnover and the future of college football. Here are the top takeaways:

Quarterback battle is wide open

There’s no clear-cut starter yet. Gundy emphasized production will ultimately separate them and hinted both could play in the opener, but no timeline has been set. The team, he said, will likely begin to "migrate" toward one naturally.

No returning pass attempts = true uncertainty

Unlike previous years with established veterans like Spencer Sanders or Mason Rudolph, neither QB in the mix has thrown a pass at this level. That makes evaluation harder and magnifies every practice rep. Still, Gundy likes the energy and competitiveness in the room.

New era = new faces everywhere

Roughly 34 new players arrived in June, including a heavy influx of transfers. Gundy estimates 12-14 of them will play in the opener. That lack of continuity compared to past years with returning rosters —is a major shift in roster building and evaluation.

Offensive line full of grown men

The offensive front features several mature transfers, including 25-year-old Bob Schick. Gundy praised their experience but noted managing their health is key given the wear on older bodies.

Depth chart clarity still weeks away

Don’t expect many locked-in spots until mid-to-late August. The coaching staff is still sorting out who will rise from a crowded field at multiple positions offensive line, secondary, and receiver especially.

Defensive growth will hinge on health and development

Gundy highlighted Kody Walterscheid , who has matured physically and are healthy after battling injuries. With more athleticism in the secondary, Gundy hopes this unit can take a step forward especially in tackling, which he admitted was poor last season.

New staff, new energy

With multiple new assistants in place, Gundy says the program has benefitted from outside perspectives while still needing time to fully sync with OSU’s culture and expectations. He's pleased with the early returns from coaches like Kevin Johns (QB) and Grant Garner (OL).

Gundy on NIL, culture, and fixing college football

In classic Gundy fashion, he didn’t shy away from big-picture thoughts — citing concerns with imbalance in NIL, the pressure on players as "contract athletes," and calling for a unified leadership model like the NFL. "I can fix it," he joked.

Physicality and tackling a point of emphasis

Tackling struggles last year were due in part to attrition and overuse of players like Obi Ezeigbo. This fall, the Cowboys are re-emphasizing fundamentals without overextending key contributors especially those making significant NIL money.

40 years in, Gundy still energized

Entering his 20th season as OSU’s head coach and 40th in college football, Gundy said his energy is as high as ever. While he hinted TV could be in his post-coaching future, he’s focused on winning now — with a new-look roster and plenty of unknowns.

Bottom Line:

This Oklahoma State team is full of promise but still figuring itself out. The quarterback race remains unsettled, transfer newcomers will have a major say in how the season unfolds, and Mike Gundy continues to adapt to a rapidly changing sport all while sounding as sharp and energized as ever.