The Oklahoma State Cowboys have their man. Eric Morris is officially the program’s next head coach, securing the rising star despite his North Texas team remaining in contention for a historic College Football Playoff berth.
Who Is Taking Over in Stillwater?
According to Pete Nakos, College Football Insider, Morris will lead the charge in Stillwater following the end of Mike Gundy’s 21-season tenure.
Gundy leaves behind a 170-90 record and a legacy that includes a Big 12 championship. However, recent results forced the administration’s hand. A disappointing 3-9 campaign in 2024, followed by a 1-2 start in 2025, highlighted by a 69-3 blowout loss to Oregon and a 19-12 defeat to Tulsa, signaled it was time for a change.
Oklahoma State is hiring North Texas head coach Eric Morris, a source tells @On3sports. https://t.co/Hc3JoPPplq https://t.co/xkcQMy6jXp pic.twitter.com/Q2aidWAkHc
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos) November 25, 2025
While Gundy built a reputation for competitive teams and bowl victories, the program’s recent struggles necessitated a fresh direction to revitalize the offense and restore national relevance.
Why Is Eric Morris Considered a Rising Star?
Morris, a Texas native, has established himself as one of college football’s brightest offensive minds. After compiling a 24-18 record at Incarnate Word from 2018 to 2021, he led North Texas to a 21-15 mark over three seasons. That includes a stellar 10-1 record in 2025, with the Mean Green currently in the mix for their first-ever College Football Playoff berth.
Known as a quarterback guru, Morris is credited with helping develop Patrick Mahomes at Texas Tech and Cam Ward at Incarnate Word. He has continued that trend at North Texas:
- QB Drew Mestemaker, a redshirt freshman, has earned a PFF grade of 88.4, the highest among freshman quarterbacks.
- RB Caleb Hawkins, another freshman, has emerged as a star with an 88.1 grade (8th nationally among running backs).
Under Morris, North Texas boasts one of the most explosive offenses in the country. They rank second in passing offense and 38th in rushing. PFSN’s offensive impact grade for the Mean Green sits at 84.8 (17th nationally), and they lead the nation with 509 points scored while averaging 7.3 yards per play and racking up 3,542 passing yards (3rd nationally).
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Despite accepting the Oklahoma State job, Morris is expected to coach North Texas through the remainder of the season. This includes any potential American Conference championship game and a possible CFP appearance. Oklahoma State granted this accommodation out of respect for Morris’ players and the historic run happening in Denton.
This decision could delay other staff hires, recruiting efforts, and transfer portal targets as Morris balances commitments to both programs. However, allowing him to finish the job at UNT demonstrates Oklahoma State’s commitment to a respectful transition.
What Does Morris Bring to Stillwater?
For Oklahoma State, Morris offers a top-tier offensive mind with a proven history of developing quarterbacks. His arrival should immediately elevate the Cowboys’ attack and position them as a contender in the Big 12.
Oklahoma State Athletic Director Chad Weiberg released an official statement marking the next era for Cowboys football:
Oklahoma State makes it official. AD Chad Weiberg: “Today begins the next era of Oklahoma State Football. Coach Morris has proven his ability to build & lead winning football programs. He has consistently identified, recruited & developed some of the best players in college… https://t.co/ctLiiT1We0
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) November 25, 2025
Weiberg highlighted Morris’ track record, emphasizing his ability not just to win, but to develop talent and build a sustainable program. His reputation for recruiting top players and fostering elite offensive production made him the clear choice.
The administration views Morris as the coach to restore national relevance while maintaining the standards expected in Stillwater. With his player development expertise and offensive innovation, Morris’ hire sends a clear message: Oklahoma State is serious about reclaiming its place among college football’s elite.
