Mississippi State’s promotion of Matt Brock to defensive coordinator is now official.

Reports surfaced earlier Wednesday that new Bulldogs coach Zach Arnett would be making the move and an official release from the school conformed the news this afternoon.

“Matt Brock is a rising star in the coaching profession who has made a tremendous impact on our defense the last three seasons,” Arnett said. “I’m very confident in his ability to lead the unit, and I look forward to watching it continue to progress under his direction.”

Brock called defensive plays in Mississippi State’s bowl win over Illinois.

He joined the Bulldogs in 2020 as special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach, and he served as linebackers coach in 2022, helping MSU rank 3rd in the SEC in total defense.

Brock also previously coached at Washington State, Bowling Green, and Texas Tech.

“I’m grateful to be in this position and appreciative to Coach Arnett for this opportunity to lead our defense,” Brock said. “I’m thankful for our players and can’t wait to get back to work with them  in this new role and build off their success the last three years.”

The Bulldogs finished their 2022 season at 9-4 but the campaign was marred by the tragic death of highly popular head coach Mike Leach in December.