Mississippi State football made Zach Arnett‘s return as defensive coordinator official Dec. 7.
Arnett replaces Coleman Hutzler, who was fired on Dec. 6 after two seasons.
Arnett was the defensive coordinator for the Bulldogs from 2020-22 under coach Mike Leach. He was promoted to head coach for the 2023 season following Leach’s death. He only lasted 10 games before being fired.
“Zach is one of the top defensive minds in college football, and we are excited to welcome him back to Mississippi State,” Bulldogs coach Jeff Lebby said in a statement. “His defenses here were tough, disciplined and among the most productive in the SEC. He brings energy, edge and a defined identity to our defense, and I’m confident he will help elevate our program immediately.”
Arnett was an analyst at Ole Miss in 2024, then was hired as UNLV’s defensive coordinator under former MSU coach Dan Mullen. However, he resigned on April 7 for “personal reasons” and was hired as an analyst at Florida State three months later.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to Mississippi State and lead this defense,” Arnett said in a statement. “This place means a great deal to me and my family, and Starkville has always felt like home. I’m excited to get to work for Coach Lebby, support his vision and do my part in contributing to the program.”
The Mississippi State defenses ranked inside the top 65 nationally in scoring during Arnett’s three seasons as coordinator. The 2023 team with Arnett as the coach ranked No. 68 with 26.6 points allowed per game.
Mississippi State had seven defensive players picked in the NFL Draft during Arnett’s four seasons. Cornerback Emmanuel Forbes was a first-round pick by the Washington Commanders in 2023.
MSU under Hutzler was 118th in scoring defense in 2024 and 95th in 2025. The Bulldogs went 5-7 in 2025 in coach Jeff Lebby’s second season.
Sam Sklar is the Mississippi State beat reporter for The Clarion Ledger. Email him at ssklar@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @sklarsam_.
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State hires Zach Arnett as DC, what Jeff Lebby said
