Former Mississippi State QB Sawyer Robertson reflects on Mike Leach's unique coaching style

Robertson played under Leach at Mississippi State and in two other offenses, preparing him for the NFL draft.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Former Mississippi State and Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson reflects on his experience playing under the late Mike Leach, describing Leach's quirky coaching style and how it differed from other offenses he encountered in college. Robertson believes his diverse college experience has prepared him well for the NFL draft, where he projects as a darkhorse prospect.

Why it matters

Leach was a legendary and one-of-a-kind college football coach, known for his innovative Air Raid offense. Robertson's insights provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it was like to play under Leach's unconventional tutelage, which could give him an edge as he aims to make an NFL roster.

The details

Robertson played in three different offensive systems during his college career, going from Leach's pure Air Raid at Mississippi State to more traditional pro-style offenses at Baylor. He says Leach's coaching style and expectations were unlike anything he experienced with other coaches, as Leach would sometimes ask him to make throws into seemingly impossible coverage windows. Despite Leach's unorthodox approach, Robertson believes the experience has prepared him well for the NFL, where he hopes to showcase his pocket passing ability, athleticism, and football IQ.

  • Robertson played under Mike Leach at Mississippi State.
  • Robertson then played in two other offensive systems at Baylor.

The players

Sawyer Robertson

A former quarterback at Mississippi State and Baylor who is now an NFL draft prospect.

Mike Leach

The late, legendary college football coach known for his innovative Air Raid offense, who coached Robertson at Mississippi State.

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What they’re saying

“Coach Leach was a legend and (being with him) was some of the most fun I ever had. He ran all our meetings and he was great to me... the biggest thing I learned from him is that he didn't care what anybody thought of him. He was going to be himself. And as a quarterback, I think that's a good quality to have.”

— Sawyer Robertson, Former Mississippi State quarterback (Yahoo Sports)

“Sometimes I'd just say, 'that's a tight window, coach. I'm not sure I can make that throw.' My experiences with other coaches has been a bit different in terms of expectations and conversations. I don't know if 'normal' is the right word.”

— Sawyer Robertson, Former Mississippi State quarterback (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Robertson will look to impress NFL scouts at the upcoming Combine, where he hopes to show he's faster than people expect.

The takeaway

Robertson's diverse college experience, including playing under the unique tutelage of the late Mike Leach, has prepared him well for the next level. His ability to adapt to different offensive systems and coaching styles could make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a smart, athletic pocket passer.