Watch: Remembering Mike Leach on the First Anniversary of His Passing
One year ago today the college football world lost an icon, as Mississippi State head coach Mike Leach passed away at the age of 61 on December 12, 2022.
Leach served as the head coach in Starkville from 2020-2022, leading the Bulldogs to three straight bowl games and an 8-4 finish in his final year with the program.
With an exuberant spirit and a spirit that was bigger than life, Leach seemed to have an effect on every person that he came in contact with, whether that be a lasting impact or an unforgettable laugh.
On the first anniversary of his death, Mississippis State football posted a short video, honoring the late ball coach for what he did during his time with the program.
Before his time at Mississippi State, Leach also spent seven years at Washington State (2012-19) and 10 seasons at Texas Tech (2000-09). During his 21 seasons as a head coach, Leach led his programs to bowl eligibility 19 times with his signature air-raid offense.
Mike Leach was named the recipient of the NCFAA Contributions to College Football Award at ESPN’s 33rd Annual Home Depot College Football Awards Show this past weekend.
During the presentation, ESPN aired this in memory of one of the most unique individuals that college football has ever seen.
Mike Leach’s career-winning percentage of 59.6% (158-107) falls four-tenths short of the minimum threshold of 60.0% to be considered for the College Football Hall of Fame, but his 23 years of service to the sport certainly surpasses the 10-year minimum requirement.
He won’t be up for the honor for another two seasons, but many feel that an exception will be made given his monstrous impact on the game, both on and off the field.
