Zach Arnett Deserves Credit at Mississippi State Football After Mike Leach's Death

Former Mississippi State football coach Zach Arnett was fired after a 4-6 season, but his legacy in Starkville is much more.

Zach Arnett's tenure as the former Mississippi State football coach was a defining period in his young career. When he made the decision to move away from the Air Raid offense and implement changes on the defensive side, it was clear that his legacy in Starkville would be shaped by the outcome of these bold moves.

Despite being fired after a 4-6 record this season, it's important to recognize that Arnett's impact goes beyond just the win-loss column. His professionalism, leadership, and integrity were commended by athletic director Zac Selmon, who saw Arnett's potential for a bright future. The influence of Mike Leach, under whom Arnett served as defensive coordinator, was evident in his approach to the game.

Arnett's implementation of the 3-3-5 defense was a significant departure from Leach's offensive-focused strategy, and it proved to be a key factor in Mississippi State's success. The Bulldogs' strong defensive performances, including a fifth-place finish in total defense among SEC teams, were a testament to Arnett's coaching prowess. His work also contributed to the development and success of defensive players like Emmanuel Forbes and Martin Emerson, who became NFL draft picks.

In addition to his on-field contributions, Arnett provided much-needed stability during a challenging time for the program. Following Leach's unexpected passing, Arnett stepped up as head coach and led the team to a successful early signing period and a victory in the ReliaQuest Bowl, capping off the program's first nine-win season since 2017. His dedication to instilling toughness and resilience in the players was recognized by interim coach Greg Knox, who praised Arnett's efforts in upholding the program's values.

As Arnett's tenure comes to an end, it's important to acknowledge the impact he had on the Mississippi State football program. While his record may not fully capture his contributions, his legacy in Starkville will be remembered for the positive influence he had on the team and the foundation he helped build for its future success.

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