How Mississippi State's Zach Arnett Carried Mike Leach's Legacy Into SEC Media Days

How new Bulldogs head coach Zach Arnett honored the late Mike Leach at 2023 SEC Media Days.

Zach Arnett took the podium at SEC Media Days over the week for the first time as head coach of Mississippi State, with the late Mike Leach in mind.

At the podium on Tuesday, Arnett wore a necktie along with an opening statement in hand, two things that Leach famously opposed. Arnett addressed the irony of the situation as he took the podium following Leach's death.

"I would like to acknowledge and mention that I have seen the graphic list in word count for every head coaches' opening statement last year at this event and coach Leach's was seven words," Arnett said in his opening statement. 

"I've already said too much and combined with wearing a tie, I'm sure I've disappointed him a little bit here today. But in recognition of his tremendous impact and influence on not only the game of football but on myself, I'm going to do my best to keep this short and sweet."

Arnett has been with the Bulldogs since 2020, serving as the team's defensive coordinator under Mike Leach. Arnett, for the first time in his college football career, took the mantle of head coach following Leach's sudden passing in December of 2022.

Despite being offered other openings from various football programs, Arnett remained loyal to the Bulldogs and will now lead them as a head coach entering the new college football season this fall.

"I look at it as a blessing," Arnett said. "I got to spend three years under what, in my opinion, is a unanimous first ballot hall of famer."

Arnett's choice of words brings attention to Leach's eligibility into the College Football Hall of Fame. Coaches are required to have a winning percentage above .600 to be eligible for induction. Leach finished his coaching career with a .596 record.

"His fingerprints and his impact on the game of football are evident throughout, particularly offensive play, modern football," Arnett said.

The Arnett era officially begins on Sept. 2, when Mississippi State hosts Southeastern Louisiana in Starkville to kick off the new season.