Sitake's Rise at BYU
Kalani Sitake returned to his alma mater in 2015 after stints as defensive coordinator at Utah and Oregon State. Over nine seasons, he has led BYU to a 72-43 record, including notable victories over powerhouses like USC, Utah, and Tennessee during their independent era.
In 2025, BYU achieved an 11-1 record, finishing No. 11 in CFP rankings with a top-25 defense allowing just 19.0 points per game. Sitake's leadership earned a massive crowd for the Pop-Tarts Bowl and positioned the Cougars for postseason success, boasting the No. 8 winning percentage among FBS coaches over the past five years.
His holistic approach includes the Built4Life program, supporting student-athletes' career development and NIL opportunities, blending on-field wins with off-field growth.
Penn State Coaching Buzz
Sources confirm Sitake, 50, as Penn State's top target following their CFP semifinal run. Meetings have occurred, covering tenure details, though no deal is finalized as BYU prepares for the Big 12 title game.
Sitake's track record—12 bowl wins in 15 appearances, including 5-2 as head coach—makes him an attractive candidate for Penn State seeking sustained excellence.
Navigating Staff Departures
As Whittingham's Michigan move ripples through the coaching world, Sitake anticipates staff losses but emphasizes resilience. 'If a program’s foundation is strong, it will find the right fit,' he stated, highlighting multiple coaches per position.
Despite a top-25 defense turnaround under Jay Hill, Sitake celebrates opportunities for his staff, prioritizing family and growth. With 22 wins in two seasons, BYU's structure ensures sustained winning amid changes.