The college football world is sending its thoughts to an icon fresh off news that Mississippi State head coach Mike Leach was hospitalized on Sunday due to a personal health issue.
Reports surfaced earlier on Sunday that Leach was taken to University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson by ambulance from his home in Starkville.
“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,” Mississippi State press release on Mike Leach situation.
Latest news on Mike Leach’s health
According to Ross Reily of the Mississippi Clarion Ledger, Leach suffered a massive heart attack early ion Sunday at his home in Starkville. Unfortunately, he did not receive medical attention for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before EMTs arrived.
When an ambulance arrived on scene, medical personnel used a defibrillator machine to restore Leach’s heart rhythm. He has then stabilized at Oktibbeha County Hospital before he was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
According to multiple sources, Leach may have suffered seizures during his medical situation and there are concerns for the possibility of brain damage. The situation remains dire, with Leach in critical condition.
College football coaches react to Mike Leach’s hospitalization
Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated noted Sunday evening that Leach’s condition is critical. Mississippi State beat writer Robbie Faulk also indicated via social media that “Mike Leach needs a miracle.”
Known for his deep thoughts and absolutely brilliant quotes, Leach’s name has been synonymous with college football dating back to his days as the Texas Tech head coach from 2000-09. He’s been Mississippi State’s head coach since 2020 after spending eight seasons with Washington State.
Leach’s Mississippi State team is set to take on Illinois in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Jan. 2. Defensive coordinator Zach Arnett was named interim head coach after Leach’s hospitalization. But this is about a lot more than football.
Our thoughts go out to Mike Leach, his wife, Sharon Leach, and their four children during this difficult time. Hopefully, some good news comes from Mississippi at some point soon.