Zach Arnett Named Mississippi State Football Defensive Coordinator

Proven Leader Returns to Starkville

Replacing Bob Shoop, Arnett Brings Championship Experience

STARKVILLE - Zach Arnett, a proven leader for the Mississippi State football program throughout his tenure in Starkville, has been named the Bulldogs' defensive coordinator. Arnett, who spent the past two seasons as the defensive coordinator at Missouri, replaces Bob Shoop, who left to join the Tennessee Titans.

Arnett was a standout linebacker for the Bulldogs from 2005-08, helping lead the team to a pair of bowl games. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Mississippi State in 2010, and after a stint at San Jose State, he returned to Starkville as the Bulldogs' linebackers coach in 2013. Arnett was promoted to co-defensive coordinator in 2017 and spent the next three seasons in that role, helping Mississippi State to a pair of top-25 finishes in total defense.

In 2020, Arnett took over as defensive coordinator at Missouri and quickly made an impact. The Tigers improved their scoring defense by 20.2 points per game and their total defense by 138.7 yards per game under his leadership. Arnett's defense also forced 24 turnovers, which ranked 11th in the FBS.

Arnett is known for his aggressive and attacking style of defense, and he is expected to bring that same approach to Mississippi State. He is also a strong recruiter, and his return to Starkville is likely to help the Bulldogs land some of the top defensive prospects in the country.