The Sporting News ranks Top 6 candidates to replace Mike Gundy at Oklahoma State

Mike Gundy seems to be living on borrowed time at Oklahoma State. After a demoralizing, embarrassing loss to the Oregon Ducks, the Cowboys seem destined to give their longtime leader a pink slip sooner rather than later.

With that in mind, Bill Bender of The Sporting News is examining who could replace Gundy in Stillwater. The Big 12 program has had immense success in the past, and whoever eventually replaces Gundy will be tasked with bringing them back to that level.

There’s sure to be no shortage of interesting options. Check out Bender’s choices below, and see for yourself if any of these six potential candidates can elevate Oklahoma State in their post-Gundy era. 

Zac Robinson, Atlanta Falcons OC

Robinson would represent a homecoming in Stillwater. He played quarterback for Gundy at Oklahoma State from 2006-09.

Over that time, Robinson was a three-year starter for the Cowboys, totaling 8,317 passing yards, 1,858 rushing yards and 88 total touchdowns. He’s been cutting his teeth in the NFL, but the chance to lead Oklahoma State might be too much to pass up. 

Alex Golesh, South Florida HC 

Golesh will be one of the more interesting candidates on everyone’s radar when the time comes to find a head coach. He’s elevated due to his tremendous combination of offensive prowess and leadership.

USF looks fantastic under his guidance, but he has ties to Oklahoma State. Bender noted that Golesh was a graduate assistant for the Cowboys early in his coaching journey.

Jon Sumrall, Tulane HC

Sumrall remains a fascinating candidate. He rose to prominence at Troy, and the good times have continued at Tulane.

All told, he’s 34-9 overall as a coach, and he’s just getting started with the Green Wave. If Oklahoma State comes calling, the opportunity might be too much to pass on for the 43-year-old. 

Collin Klein, Texas A&M OC

Collin Klein seems to be on his way to becoming a head coach in college football. At 35-years-old, he’s already shown to be an innovative offensive mind at Kansas State and Texas A&M.

Oklahoma State would certainly be taking a bit of a chance with Klein. There’s some risk, but there’s also potential for tremendous reward if it all works out under the former Heisman finalist quarterback. 

Andy Kotelnicki, Penn State OC

Kotelnicki has been the perfect addition for Penn State as their offensive coordinator. He’s worked wonders with quarterback Drew Allar, and brought the Nittany Lions offense into the future.

Before that, he was an up-and-comer while with Kansas. His first head coaching gig coming in the Big 12 would be fitting, and Oklahoma State would land a promising offensive leader in the process. 

Eric Bieniemy, Chicago Bears RBC 

Once upon a time, Bieniemy seemed destined for NFL coaching glory. He was Andy Reid’s right-hand man, but a falling out in Kansas City led to him leaving the Chiefs.

Since then, it’s been a rollercoaster ride for the offensive coach’s career. Bender noted that he’s a long shot for Oklahoma State, but the Cowboys could show some interest due to his past success.