Oklahoma State University’s football program has endured a steep decline, posting a combined 4‑20 record over the last two seasons, a stark contrast to the winning culture cultivated under longtime coach Mike Gundy.
The Cowboys’ recent slide has sparked speculation about their future, especially as the program seeks a turnaround under new head coach Eric Morris, who inherited a roster burdened by defensive inconsistencies.
College football insider Brett McMurphy, an OSU alumnus, argues that a return to winning will be the catalyst that makes the school attractive to power‑conference suitors such as the SEC and the Big Ten.
The Current Landscape of Big 12 Football
The Big 12 finds itself isolated, often described as an ‘island of misfit toys,’ yet its geographic concentration in the heart of the Midwest and South could make it a natural partner for the ACC in any future merger talks.
Conference Realignment Scenarios
Both the SEC and the Big Ten have signaled reluctance to expand into a state already dominated by existing members; the SEC, for instance, has no appetite for adding another Oklahoma‑based school, while the Big Ten’s emphasis on AAU membership further narrows OSU’s options.
Analysts note that the Big Ten has historically looked westward for expansion, but a southern push would require partners that meet academic and brand criteria, leaving the ACC’s pool as the more plausible target.
If the Power Five conferences do decide to merge or restructure, the Big 12’s current composition could position it as a bargaining chip, especially if the ACC seeks to bolster its football pedigree.
What’s Next for the Cowboys
Morris and his staff are focusing on tightening defense and installing a more aggressive offensive scheme, hoping that a few key victories will translate into the winning record that McMurphy says is essential for any realignment conversation.
The coming season will likely be judged not just by on‑field progress but by how effectively the program can leverage its historical brand and fan base to attract attention from the nation’s elite conferences.