Mississippi State promote DC Zach Arnett to head coach

Mississippi State hired defensive coordinator Zach Arnett as the program's next head coach, the school announced Thursday.

The move comes after longtime coach Mike Leach died at the age of 61 on Monday after complications from a heart condition. The school had already announced that Arnett would be in charge of the team for its game against Illinois in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Jan. 2 in Florida.

"Our football program has dealt with a stunning blow at the untimely passing of coach Mike Leach," said MSU President Mark E. Keenum. "It is imperative that we bring stability and continuity to our team and our coaching staff as we move forward from this tragic event.

"I have tremendous confidence in Zach Arnett's leadership and believe he is uniquely positioned to continue the progress coach Leach brought to our program. He brings great drive and intensity to the task."

Arnett received a four-year contract worth $3 million annually.

The 36-year-old joined Mississippi State as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach in 2020 after previously serving in the same roles at San Diego State.

Mississippi State has posted an 8-4 record this season. The Bulldogs' defense has improved each year with Arnett on the sideline, going from allowing 28.1 points per game in 2020 to 24.2 in 2022.