The storied Bedlam rivalry between the Oklahoma Sooners and Oklahoma State Cowboys has been on pause in football since Oklahoma’s move to the SEC. Now, Oklahoma’s athletic director, Joe Castiglione, has offered new insight into whether that hiatus will end anytime soon — and the picture is uncertain.
Castiglione recently revealed that he reached out to Oklahoma State several months ago to explore bringing back the Bedlam game. His outreach, however, was met with what he described as “minimal” interest from the Cowboys. With Oklahoma now navigating conference scheduling changes in the SEC — including a move to a nine-game conference slate and the requirement to schedule at least one “Power 4” nonconference opponent — he sees OSU as a logical candidate for revival of the in-state rivalry. But for now, the Sooners appear to be the only side fully on board.
With Oklahoma State’s leadership in flux following the ousting of former head coach Mike Gundy, there is at least some optimism that opinions may shift. Castiglione noted that the timing of his initial conversations came while Gundy was still in place; the change in leadership could reopen dialogue. But as of now, the two schools remain at an impasse.
History of a Lopsided Rivalry, But One Worth Saving
When it comes to football, the series between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State has long been dominated by the Sooners. Oklahoma has won 91 times, while Oklahoma State has managed just 21 victories, along with 7 tied games. That disparity has branded OSU the perennial underdog — the “little brother” in this rivalry.
Still, despite the imbalance on the scoreboard, Bedlam has remained among college football’s more compelling rivalries. Its geographic proximity, historical intensity, and passionate fan bases ensure that it carries weight well beyond its competitive balance. For many, the rivalry feels incomplete without an annual Bedlam matchup in the schedule.
Bringing it back would be more than symbolic: it would restore a centerpiece of Oklahoma football culture. With the Sooners eager to resume the series and OSU perhaps rethinking its stance under new leadership, there is a window of possibility. But whether that opportunity becomes reality remains up in the air.