Ad Disclosure
Mike Leach, Mississippi State head coach and college football legend, passes away
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Mike Leach passed away late Monday evening, Mississippi State confirmed via a release from the family Tuesday morning. He was 61-years-old and passes away following complications related to a heart condition.
“Mike was a giving and attentive husband, father and grandfather,” the Leach Family said via statement. “He was able to participate in organ donation at UMMC as a final act of charity. We are supported and uplifted by the outpouring of love and prayers from family, friends, Mississippi State University, the hospital staff, and football fans around the world. Thank you for sharing in the joy of our beloved husband and father’s life.”
Leach was wrapping up his third season as head coach of the program at Mississippi State and his 21st overall as a head coach at the college football ranks. Leach posted an overall record of 19-17 with the Bulldogs and finishes with a lifetime FBS head coaching record of 158-107 across stops at Texas Tech, Washington State and Mississippi State.
“We are heartbroken and devastated by the passing of Mike Leach,” said MSU interim AD Bracky Brett. “College football lost one of its most beloved figures today, but his legacy will last forever. Mike’s energetic personality, influential presence and extraordinary leadership touched millions of athletes, students, coaches, fans, family and friends for decades.
“Mike was an innovator, pioneer and visionary. He was a college football icon, a coaching legend but an even better person,” said Brett. “We are all better for having known Mike Leach. The thoughts and prayers of Mississippi State University and the entire Bulldog family are with his wife Sharon, his children and the entire Leach family.”
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.