Assistant Coach David Turner Will Serve As Interim Head Coach

Mississippi State Fires Coach Zach Arnett After 40-17 Loss to Alabama

Assistant Coach David Turner Will Serve as Interim Head Coach

Mississippi State University has fired head football coach Zach Arnett, the school announced Monday. The Bulldogs finished the 2023 season with a 6-6 record, including a 40-17 loss to Alabama in their final game. Defensive coordinator David Turner will serve as interim head coach while the school conducts a search for a permanent replacement.

Arnett's Record at Mississippi State

Arnett, who was hired in 2020, had a 19-31 record in three seasons at Mississippi State. The Bulldogs went 3-9 in his first season, improved to 7-6 in 2021, and finished 6-6 this year. Arnett's teams were known for their strong defense, but struggled offensively at times.

Reaction to Arnett's Firing

Mississippi State athletic director John Cohen thanked Arnett for his service to the university but said it was time for a change. "I want to thank Coach Arnett for his hard work and dedication to our football program," Cohen said in a statement. "He put his heart and soul into this job, but unfortunately, the results on the field did not meet our expectations."

Search for New Head Coach

Mississippi State will immediately begin a search for a new head football coach. Several potential candidates have already been mentioned, including former Mississippi State quarterback and current Baylor head coach Dave Aranda. The Bulldogs hope to have a new coach in place before the start of the 2024 season.