Mike Gundy is being considered for The North Texas job, among other candidates, to succeed Eric Morris.

This could resemble one of those peculiar instances in sports where it appears a program has let go of its most identifiable personality. Should Mike Gundy relocate to Denton, it would seem akin to Oklahoma State dispatching a program icon as part of an unforeseen deal. This would be unexpected for nearly any coach nationwide, but Gundy has consistently charted his own course. He's a certain College Football Hall of Fame inductee, with his 170 victories in Stillwater solidifying that status. While there's nothing left for him to achieve officially, he's always been driven by the pursuit of challenge, competition, and new endeavors.

This is why the unusual combination works. For twenty years, Gundy has established Oklahoma State as a national presence, yet he's consistently embraced change. North Texas would offer him something he hasn't experienced recently: a blank slate, a new challenge, and an environment where he could mold the entire program to his vision, influencing everything from team meetings and overall culture to their playing style. Furthermore, if he accepted the position, he'd undoubtedly reach out to schedule a game against Oklahoma State, as creating a stir is integral to his personality.

Other candidates

Pat Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald, who previously coached at Northwestern, is an individual who probably wouldn't have been within North Texas's reach in prior recruiting periods, but similar to Gundy, he might be seeking the appropriate route back into coaching. His experience in the Big Ten and his proven ability to develop players would instantly enhance the recruitment process.

Kendal Briles

Since 2023, Briles has served as TCU’s offensive coordinator, having previously held OC positions at FAU, Florida State, Houston, and Arkansas following his departure from Baylor in 2016. This potential hiring might be the most practical choice available, given his residence within the DFW metroplex and his extensive familiarity with the area.

Graham Harrell

Harrell, a Texas native, achieved success as North Texas's offensive coordinator between 2016 and 2018. He subsequently held coordinator positions at USC, Purdue, West Virginia, and most recently, Abilene Christian. His history of leading potent offenses and his extensive knowledge of UNT position him as a highly suitable candidate.

Kirby Moore

Moore stands out as a prominent offensive coordinator nationally, currently holding the position at Missouri, where he's solidified his reputation for effectively developing quarterbacks. While he may be beyond their financial reach, he's undoubtedly one of the most compelling coaching prospects.

Bill Clark

Clark has signaled he's amenable to coaching again, and North Texas might be a more suitable destination for this return than UAB. He established UAB from scratch and would impart immediate credibility and resilience to Denton.

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Willie Taggart

Taggart's background spans various roles, and he's successfully revitalized programs previously, despite inconsistent recent tenures. The attraction for North Texas lies in the prospect of stability and a coach potentially committed to a longer stay, offering a more consistent long-term choice.

Riley & Klein

While Riley at Clemson and Klein at Texas A&M are both considered potential future head coaches, their current compensation packages probably surpass what North Texas could realistically afford, despite their names being circulated on social media. For UNT to secure either coach, the argument would have to emphasize Denton as a genuine launchpad toward a College Football Playoff berth, and the Mean Green are now in a situation where this appeal holds significant value.

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