Mississippi State coach Mike Leach was hospitalized Sunday after experiencing what the school termed “a personal health issue at his home.”
The school didn’t provide any other information per the health of the 61-year-old Leach.
Leach was taken by ambulance from his Starkville home to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, approximately 125 miles away.
“That is the extent of information that MSU has available regarding Coach Leach’s condition, and the university will make no other comment at this time other than to say that the thoughts and prayers of the university are with Mike and Sharon and their family,” the school said.
Among media reports trickling out Sunday evening, Sports Illustrated described the coach’s condition as being “critical.”
Former colleagues and friends also alluded to the seriousness of the situation, with Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen, who coached with Leach at Texas Tech from 2000-07, saying in part, “My thoughts are with my mentor” and “I am devastated by today’s news.”
My thoughts are with my mentor, my colleague and, more importantly, my friend, Mike Leach. While I am devastated by today’s news, I know Mike is a fighter with an incredible spirit and I know he will continue to battle. Prayers to Sharon and their extended family. ????
— Dana Holgorsen (@Holgorsendana) December 12, 2022
Defensive coordinator Zach Arnett will serve as interim head coach during Leach’s absence.
No. 22 Mississippi State (8-4) is slated to face Illinois (8-4) in the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Fla., on Jan. 2.
Leach is in his third season with the Bulldogs and has a 19-17 record. Overall, he is 158-107 in 21 seasons at Texas Tech (2000-09), Washington State (2012-19) and Mississippi State.
–Field Level Media
