When Oklahoma State reportedly declined overtures to bring back Bedlam football against their in‑state rival, Oklahoma, reaction among Cowboy supporters was swift and harsh. For many, it feels like more than a scheduling choice—it’s a refusal to embrace the history, the passion, and the identity of the program itself.
More Than Just a Game
Even though the Sooners have dominated the series over recent decades, winning seven of the last ten matchups, the rivalry has always meant more than wins and losses. It’s about bragging rights, recruiting leverage, and emotional stakes that transcend records. For OSU fans, the decision not to resume the game smacks of something deeper: a sense of avoiding the moment, rather than stepping into it.
Bedlam hasn’t been played since 2023 due to Oklahoma’s move to the SEC, but OSU currently holds the rivalry trophy after winning that final Big 12 matchup. Despite that momentum, the Cowboys seem unwilling to continue the series—and it’s not sitting well with much of the fanbase.
Oklahoma Wants It—Loud and Clear
The anger is amplified by how vocal Oklahoma’s leadership has been about wanting the rivalry reinstated. OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione went out of his way during Red River Showdown week to declare that Oklahoma is eager to bring Bedlam back. That kind of messaging, especially from such a high-profile figure, only heightens the contrast between the two programs.
Fans took notice. While OU is publicly pushing for the rivalry’s return, OSU’s silence, or refusal, has only further stirred discontent among its supporters.
“We Need a Coach Who Wants Bedlam Back”
Across social media platforms, fans have voiced their frustration. One of the most consistent sentiments echoed online is that Oklahoma State needs to hire a head coach who not only accepts the Bedlam challenge but embraces it. Some fans even suggest that returning Bedlam to the schedule should be part of the new coach’s mandate.
Others argue the Cowboys program desperately needs the energy and buzz that Bedlam naturally brings. With the program going through a transitional phase, many believe this is the perfect moment to reestablish tradition and reclaim relevance in the national spotlight.
Dodge the Challenge, or Rise to It?
Many fans believe that avoiding the Bedlam rivalry sends the wrong message—not just to recruits and opponents, but to the entire college football world. Rather than viewing it as an insurmountable challenge, they argue Oklahoma State should rise to meet it head-on. The Cowboys may be underdogs in the series historically, but the chance to battle for state supremacy each year is something they believe the program should crave, not reject.
The Consensus: Bring Bedlam Back
While debate rages on in some corners, the majority opinion among fans is clear: they want Bedlam back. They believe it’s for the good of the program, the sport, and the state of Oklahoma as a whole. Letting this historic rivalry fade away, in their eyes, is not a strategic decision—it’s a disservice to the legacy and future of Oklahoma State football.
For now, the game remains off the schedule. But if the volume of fan voices is any indication, the conversation around Bedlam’s return is far from over.