Chris
Oklahoma State University has officially announced significant changes to its football coaching staff following a challenging 3-9 season that ended the program’s 18-year bowl streak under head coach Mike Gundy. The university has appointed Todd Grantham as the new defensive coordinator and Doug Meacham as the offensive coordinator, aiming to revitalize the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
Todd Grantham, 58, brings a wealth of experience from both collegiate and professional football. He joins the Cowboys after serving as a senior advisor and defensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints. Grantham’s extensive resume includes defensive coordinator positions at Georgia, Louisville, Mississippi State, and Florida, as well as in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns from 2005 to 2007. His defensive units have been recognized for their aggressive play and ability to adapt to various offensive schemes. Grantham’s immediate departure from the Saints underscores his commitment to rejuvenating Oklahoma State’s defense.
On the offensive side, Doug Meacham returns to Oklahoma State, where he previously served as an assistant coach from 2005 to 2012. A former standout offensive lineman for the Cowboys, Meacham has held offensive coordinator roles at TCU, Kansas, and Houston. His tenure at TCU was particularly notable, where he was a finalist for the Broyles Award, given to the nation’s top assistant coach. Meacham is known for his innovative offensive strategies and ability to develop high-scoring offenses, which will be crucial in revitalizing the Cowboys’ offensive performance.
These coaching changes come after the university parted ways with former coordinators Kasey Dunn and Bryan Nardo earlier this month. The decision followed a disappointing season where the Cowboys went winless in Big 12 play, leading to a reevaluation of the coaching staff. Head coach Mike Gundy, who has been with the program for two decades, agreed to a restructured contract, indicating a commitment to turning the program around.
The appointments of Grantham and Meacham signal Oklahoma State’s dedication to reinvigorating its football program. With their combined experience and fresh perspectives, the Cowboys aim to overcome the challenges of the previous season and reestablish themselves as a formidable force in college football. As the new season approaches, the focus will be on how these strategic changes translate into on-field performance and whether they can restore the team’s competitive edge in the Big 12 Conference.
