In 2018, all it takes is an emoji or 2 to get the internet buzzing.

That’s exactly what Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy did on Thursday afternoon.

On Monday, Oklahoma State athletic director Mike Holder joined the “Pistols Firing” podcast and had an interesting comment about the Cowboys head football coach.

“You’ve got to give credit to Mike Gundy. He’s really matured into a difference-maker as a coach,” Holder said on the podcast. “I would approach recruiting a little differently than he does. I’d want to finish higher in those recruiting rankings than we consistently do. I think that ultimately puts a ceiling on what you’re able to achieve.”

It appeared that Gundy clapped back:

The timing of it is obviously interesting given the comments that Holder made. Gundy was rumored to be offered the Tennessee job, but he accepted an extension to stick around in Stillwater.

Though OSU hasn’t finished with a top-30 class in the last 4 recruiting cycles, Gundy still led the Cowboys to double-digit wins in 6 of the last 8 seasons. He’s been at Oklahoma State for 13 years, and according to reports, he’s had plenty of opportunities to go elsewhere.

Could Gundy perhaps have a situation like Jimbo Fisher had at Florida State last year? Who knows.

It’s safe to say college football’s best mullet will have plenty of eyes on him in 2018.