Oklahoma State football: Frustrations of best coaches when it comes to Bedlam

Despite being the most successful coaches in Oklahoma State history, that success hasn't translated to Bedlam for Pat Jones (left) and Mike Gundy. By Matt Strasen, The Oklahoman

With apologies to Jim Lookabaugh, the two most successful coaches in OSU football history are Pat Jones and Mike Gundy.

Lookabaugh was very successful. In 11 seasons, Lookabaugh went 58-41-6. He coached the 1944 Cowboys to the Sugar Bowl and the 1945 Cowboys to the Cotton Bowl. By every measurement, an excellent resume’.

However, Lookabaugh’s high times came during World War II, when college football was at its lowest point ever. Most able-bodied American lads were fighting the Nazis or the Japanese.

The successes of Jones and Gundy came during college football golden years. Jones in the ’80s, when college football was rock ‘em sock ‘em football. Gundy in the 21st century, when parity has made almost every Saturday an adventure.