Mullen Makes Staff Move

January 7, 2016

Nick Savage, who served as Mississippi State football’s assistant strength coach the past two seasons, has been named head strength coach for the Bulldogs, head coach Dan Mullen announced on Thursday.

SAVAGE

“Nick has played a vital role in the development of our players since his arrival,” said Mullen. “He understands what it takes to train at a championship level from the weight room to nutrition. He brings an infectious personality, energy and a purpose to our facility every day. Our players respect him and will continue to develop.”

Savage was the interim head strength coach during December as MSU prepared for the Belk Bowl following the departure of Rick Court to Maryland. The Bulldogs defeated NC State 51-28 in Charlotte for their fourth bowl victory in the past six seasons. They never trailed, jumping out to a 14-0 lead after the first quarter.

“You live for opportunities like this, and I am thrilled to continue to be a part of the special program we have here at Mississippi State,” said Savage. “We want to continue to raise the standard in everything we do. Our preparation for the 2016 season begins now. We will give relentless effort when we step into the building.”

Savage worked exclusively with football since he joined Court’s staff in May 2014. The 26-year-old has gained experience at four different FBS programs since January 2013. He interned at Bowling Green from January 2013-May 2013 and then at Ohio State from May 2013-January 2014.

Savage served as a graduate assistant at Toledo for five months before arriving in Starkville. He was instrumental in developing the Bulldogs into one of the nation’s fittest teams while serving as an assistant during the 2014 campaign that saw MSU spend five weeks atop the polls and earn its highest Associated Press poll finish since 1940 (No. 11).

The Youngstown, Ohio, native earned his undergraduate degree in exercise science from Youngstown State in 2013. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree. Savage attended Boardman High School in Youngstown.