Early Life And Playing Career

Zachary Arnett: From Player to Head Coach

Early Life and Playing Career

Zachary Arnett was born on September 10, 1986. He played linebacker at the University of New Mexico from 2005 to 2008. During his playing career, he recorded 278 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 4 interceptions.

Coaching Career

Arnett began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of New Mexico. In 2011, he was hired as a defensive analyst at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). He spent two years in that role before being promoted to linebackers coach in 2013.

Arnett helped Ole Miss achieve a 10-3 record and a Sugar Bowl victory in 2015. He was also named the SEC Recruting Coordinator of the Year in 2016.

Mississippi State Head Coach

On December 15, 2022, Arnett was named the 35th head coach in Mississippi State program history. He was hired just days after the tragic passing of Mike Leach.

Arnett's hiring was met with mixed reactions. Some fans were excited about the hiring of a young, up-and-coming coach. Others were concerned about his lack of head coaching experience.

2023 Season Outlook

Arnett's first season as head coach will be a challenging one. Mississippi State lost several key players from last year's team, including quarterback Will Rogers and wide receiver Jaden Walley.

However, Arnett has a talented roster to work with. He also has a strong coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay and defensive coordinator Zach Arnett.

Mississippi State is expected to finish in the middle of the SEC West this season. However, anything is possible with Arnett at the helm.