What Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy Said About Oregon Ducks and NIL Disparity
As the Oklahoma State Cowboys prepare to face the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 12:30 p.m. PT, head coach Mike Gundy didn’t hold back when asked about Oregon’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) advantage.
Known for being outspoken, Gundy used his radio show this week to voice his concerns about the financial imbalance between programs, particularly in the context of non-conference matchups. He pointed to Oregon’s sizable NIL resources—heavily supported by Nike co-founder Phil Knight and other donors—as a major factor in creating an uneven playing field.
Gundy Criticizes NIL Gap
According to Gundy, Oregon had around $40 million in NIL backing last season (though Nebraska’s AD Troy Dannen previously pegged it closer to $23 million). By comparison, Oklahoma State’s NIL total over the past three years combined has been just $7 million.
“Nobody likes to know the ending of the movie,” Gundy said. “At some point, there has to be a better handle on it. I’m hearing coaches around the country now say that non-conference scheduling should be based on schools having similar financial backing. Oregon is paying a lot of money for their team. From a non-conference standpoint, some coaches are saying they should only play programs that are spending the same amount.”
Gundy’s remarks reflect growing concerns across college football that NIL advantages are starting to dictate not just recruiting but competitive balance in scheduling.
Respect for Oregon, Despite Concerns
Despite his criticism of the NIL landscape, Gundy also acknowledged the talent and preparation of Dan Lanning’s Ducks, who come off a strong Week 1 performance against Montana State. Oregon’s offense was balanced and explosive, racking up 506 total yards—253 through the air and 253 on the ground.
“They’re a good team. No doubt about it,” Gundy said. “Our players are excited to go out there and compete. These are the kinds of games where young men get to test themselves at the highest level. Oregon has their roster stacked pretty well right now, and that’s good for our guys to see. It challenges them to believe in themselves and their team.”
As both teams gear up for a key early-season clash, Gundy’s comments add another layer of intrigue—highlighting the growing role NIL is playing not just on the field, but in the broader landscape of college football scheduling and parity.
No Comment! Be the first one.