Avast ye landlubbers! Mississippi State be payin' tribute to the late Cap'n Mike Leach in their home game. Arrr!
2023-09-02
Arrr, me hearties! Avast ye! In the bleak winter's month o' December, the great college football tactician, Cap'n Mike Leach, breathed his last breath at the ripe age o' 61. But fear ye not, for Mississippi State, bein' filled with courage, played its inaugural home game since his passin' on a fine Saturday, full o' hope and determination! Yo ho ho!
The Mississippi State Bulldogs are playing their first game since the sudden death of head coach Mike Leach. Leach, who was 61 years old, passed away in December after just completing his third season coaching the program. In honor of Leach, the university president and athletic director presented his family with a framed jersey and a signed executive order for flags to fly at half-staff. A tribute video played on the scoreboard and Leach's signature appeared on the sidelines.Leach died of complications from a heart condition as the team was preparing for the ReliaQuest Bowl, which they ultimately won. University President Mark Keenum praised Leach's impact on the college football landscape, stating that his innovative offense changed the game. Keenum also reflected on the fragility of life and expressed his condolences to the Leach family.
Leach began his coaching career as an assistant under Bob Stoops at Oklahoma before getting his first head coaching job at Texas A&M. He later moved on to Washington State, where he led the team to an 11-win season in 2018. In 2020, Leach joined Mississippi State and made an impact in the SEC, finishing with winning records in the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Despite the sadness surrounding Leach's passing, his legacy as a legendary coach and his open approach to pursuing excellence will be remembered. The Bulldog family sends their prayers to the Leach family during this difficult time.