'We’ve turned the corner': Why Mike Gundy and his Oklahoma State football players are enjoying better days

STILLWATER — Mike Gundy stood in the Sherman E. Smith Training Center, having just started a press conference, when a song rang out. 

One of those I-know-that-tune-but-it-doesn't-fit-here moments. 

“Happy birthday, to you...” 

Around the corner came a group of Cowboy football players — Spencer Sanders, Malcolm Rodriguez, Brennan Presley, a few others — collectively carrying a cake. It was Gundy’s 54th birthday. 

The celebration was short. Gundy shooed them away with a smile and an order that they each get a piece and a final salutation. 

“Love you guys.”