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Another college football coach has been fired.
On Monday, November 13, the Mississippi State football program announced it is parting ways with head coach Zach Arnett after less than one season.
Through 10 games, Arnett compiled a 4-6 record and was just 1-6 in SEC play.
Arnett was promoted from defensive coordinator to interim head coach in 2022 following the death of former head coach Mike Leach. After leading Mississippi State to a win in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the university removed the interim tag.
“As part of my thorough and continued evaluation, I have determined that a change in leadership is necessary to move our football program forward and position it for the highest level of success,” Mississippi State Director of Athletics Zac Selmon said in a statement. “I have the utmost respect for Zach Arnett and am incredibly appreciative of the effort he put forth in leading our football program. However, the progress and on-field results have not been of the standard required for Mississippi State to achieve the level of success we need and expect.
Mississippi State Announces Change In Football Leadershiphttps://t.co/H2MaJ4O8YU
— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) November 13, 2023
“Zach took on an unprecedented and challenging situation last December. He provided the football program much needed leadership and stability during a tragic time. There is no question that he has made a positive impact on the lives of our student-athletes during his time here. We are grateful for his contributions to Mississippi State and wish him the very best both personally and professionally.
“Starkville is a special place with incredible people. Our football program is an NFL factory in a recruiting footprint that is second to none and has previously shown it can compete at the highest level in the SEC. With Mississippi State’s history, tradition, devoted fan base and facilities, while competing in the nation’s best conference, I firmly believe we will attract someone who will bring a winning culture on-and-off the field and lead our program to new heights in today’s era of college football.”
Senior offensive analyst Greg Knox will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Knox previously served as interim head coach at Mississippi State in 2017 and at Florida in 2021.
The Bulldogs will finish off the regular season with back-to-back home games against Southern Miss and No. 13 Ole Miss.
