Brian Kelly on Mike Leach's sudden passing: 'We have lost the most transformational mind'

The world of college football is mourning the unexpected passing of Mississippi State coach Mike Leach, who died Monday night following complications from a heart condition.

Leach was 61.

LSU coach Brian Kelly joined those who have extended their condolences to Leach's family, team and the Starkville community Tuesday.

"We have lost the most transformational mind in football in my generation and the best press conferences you will ever Google," Kelly said in a statement. "More than that, we lost an honest, caring and committed father, husband, grandfather and coach.

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"The game is forever changed because of his work and Mike's legacy will live on forever through the people he impacted. Rest in peace, Mike."

Less than three weeks ago, Leach capped his third season as the Bulldogs' coach with his first win over rival Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl. Mississippi State is set to play in the ReliaQuest Bowl against Illinois on Jan. 2, with defensive coordinator Zach Arnett to serve as interim head coach.

Mississippi State revealed Sunday that Leach had been transported via ambulance to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson following a "personal health issue" at his home earlier that day.

Later that day, Kelly asked everyone to keep Leach and his family in their prayers.

"We are thinking about Mike, his wife Sharon and all of his family, friends and players," Kelly tweeted.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: LSU football's Brian Kelly on Mike Leach: 'Mike's legacy will live on'