According to the announcer mississippi State Football head coach has name another…
STARKVILLE Zach Arnett, an established leader for the Mississippi State football program during his time in Starkville, was named the 35th head football coach of the Bulldogs on Thursday morning by President Mark Keenum and Interim Director of Athletics Bracky Brett.
Arnett has been MSU’s defensive coordinator for the past three seasons. He is regarded as a rising star in the coaching world and as one of the best defensive minds in college football.
“The sudden death of Coach Mike Leach has dealt a devastating blow to our football program,” MSU President Mark E. Keenum said. As we move past this tragic incident, it is crucial that we provide stability and continuity to both our coaching staff and our team. Zach has my utmost confidence.
Because of Arnett’s leadership and his special position, we think he can carry on Coach Leach’s legacy of program advancement. He approaches the work with a lot of passion and drive.”
Arnett consented to a contract worth $3 million a year plus performance-based incentives, with a maximum term of four years permitted by Mississippi state law.
“Everyone at Mississippi State is going through a really tough moment, but our football student-athletes and staff in particular,” Brett remarked. “As we support each person in overcoming the grief they are experiencing in the wake of Coach Leach’s passing, we believed it was essential to give the team a capable leader who can guide them through these difficult times and into the future. That boss is Arnett Zach. He has supported every member of the program steadfastly both during this trying time and his stay in Starkville. In this new position, he will continue to improve Mississippi State’s culture as a superb, youthful coach who is aware of it.
Arnett ran a signature 3-3-5 scheme while he was at Starkville, where he was known for his physicality, heavy blitzing, and aggressive play.
“It is an honor that Dr. Keenum and Bracky Brett trust me to run our program,” Arnett remarked. “For me and everyone connected to Mississippi State football, this is a very trying time. Coach Leach left a lasting impression on MSU and the entire student body, and no one can ever football in college. We are dedicated to upholding Coach Leach’s legacy and continuing to build on the solid foundation he laid. Our team is full of strong, resilient young men.
In his three seasons as head coach, Arnett’s attacking defense philosophy has proven to be a defining characteristic of MSU teams, as the Bulldogs have finished in the top five of the SEC in takeaways, rushing defense, and total defense.
Two of the best tacklers in the SEC were on the Mississippi State defense in 2022. Mississippi State is the only team in the league with two players who have more than 100 tackles on the field: Jett Johnson tied for third place in the league with 103 tackles, and Nathaniel Watson led the SEC with 108 total tackles.
