It's all change for the Mississippi State Bulldogs' coaching team! 🏈
The 2026 season brings a fresh start with a revamped coaching staff, and the fans are eager to see the impact of these moves. But here's the twist: the most significant changes are happening on the defensive side, which could spark some heated debates among fans and analysts alike.
Head coach Jeff Lebby has been busy finalizing his crew, and the new-look staff is a mix of familiar faces and exciting newcomers. Let's dive in and explore these intriguing adjustments:
Assistant Coach Bush Hamdan's Role: Hamdan, a versatile coach with experience in quarterback and wide receiver coaching, has been appointed as the associate head coach. Lebby's initial hesitation in assigning a specific position to Hamdan adds an intriguing layer to this decision. But now, with the full staff in place, Hamdan's expertise will be utilized in coaching the wide receivers.
Welcome, Coach Kevin Johns: Johns, who joins from Oklahoma State, will take on the crucial role of quarterbacks coach. He steps into the shoes of Matt Holecek, who has moved on from the program. Johns' experience at Oklahoma State will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the quarterback room.
Defensive Shuffles: On defense, there's a significant shift in responsibilities. Matt Barnes, one of Lebby's first defensive hires, steps down from his co-defensive coordinator role but remains a key figure in coaching the safeties. Meanwhile, the program welcomes former LSU player and assistant Jermauria Rasco as the assistant defensive line coach, adding some SEC experience to the mix.
The Defensive Coordinator Switch: Perhaps the most notable change is the appointment of Zach Arnett as the new defensive coordinator, replacing Coleman Hutzler. Arnett brings former Bulldog linebacker coach Matt Brock back to the fold, along with standout linebacker Jett Johnson. This move strengthens the defensive unit and adds a layer of familiarity, given their Mississippi State connections.
As the Bulldogs gear up for spring practices, the coaching staff is a blend of fresh talent and returning favorites. The strength and conditioning team is hard at work, ensuring the players are ready for the upcoming challenges. But the big question remains: will these coaching adjustments pay off on the field?
And this is where it gets interesting—the defensive changes could be a masterstroke or a risky move. What do you think? Are the Bulldogs on the right track, or is this a recipe for disaster? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's spark some lively discussions!
