Oklahoma State Claims Final Bedlam Victory in Historic College Football Rivalry
ICARO Media Group
In a thrilling culmination to the historic Bedlam rivalry, Oklahoma State emerged victorious against Oklahoma with a score of 27-24, marking their last showdown on the football field before the series' end. The game, played on a warm night with temperatures reaching 65 degrees, witnessed a back-and-forth affair filled with big plays, mistakes, and multiple lead changes.
Dating back to the legendary first encounter in 1904, where a punt blown backward by a stiff wind led to a touchdown for Oklahoma, the Bedlam series has been one of college football's most lopsided rivalries. With Oklahoma's dominant record of 91 wins against Oklahoma State's 19, Saturday's game held deep significance for Cowboys fans and players alike.
Aware that this would be the game that people would remember, both teams fought relentlessly. Oklahoma State had several missed opportunities to seal the victory, causing a sense of heartbreak among fans who had endured years of disappointment. However, their hopes were reignited when Oklahoma regained possession, trailing by three points, with just 1 minute and 53 seconds remaining.
The game reached a pivotal moment on a fourth-and-5 play when Oklahoma attempted a completion that fell considerably short of the marker. It was then that the Cowboys sealed their triumph, securing a final defeat over their long-standing rivals. The decisive play was made by Drake Stoops, son of former Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops, who had inflicted years of torment on the Cowboys during his time as coach.
For Oklahoma State fans, the victory symbolized a release from a century's worth of pain. The impending end of the Bedlam rivalry held little weight as they reveled in the win and celebrated the historic feat of consecutive home victories over Oklahoma, a feat that had not been accomplished since 1932.
Head coach Mike Gundy played a significant role in the Cowboys' triumph. Having previously experienced multiple losses to Oklahoma as both a player and a coach, Gundy's fourth win in the series cemented his status as the Cowboys' all-time leader among coaches in the Bedlam rivalry. Overwhelmed with joy, Gundy relished the moment, savoring the passion and euphoria exuded by the fans.
As Oklahoma State supporters filled the field, creating a sea of jubilant fans, Gundy's emotions were evident. Moving through the tunnel, he congratulated each player and staffer who passed by, taking pictures alongside his son Gunnar, a quarterback on the team.
In his post-game news conference, Gundy, known for his intense focus, allowed himself to revel in the moment. His guarded demeanor gradually faded, making way for a more informal and joyous interview session. When asked about his preferred Diet Coke flavor, Gundy quipped, "Whiskey," showcasing his carefree and celebratory spirit.
With the conclusion of the Bedlam rivalry drawing near, Oklahoma State fans found solace in the fact that their victory would forever be etched in the annals of the series. As the remnants of a goal post stood tall in Theta Pond, a visual representation of the long-standing tradition, fans gathered, fully immersing themselves in the historic significance of the win.
True to the unpredictable nature of Bedlam, this final clash encapsulated the essence of the fiercely contested rivalry. While the series may be coming to an end, the memories and triumphs achieved throughout its storied history will forever be cherished by fans on both sides.