Kalani Sitake has chosen to remain with Brigham Young University (BYU), turning down advances from Penn State to fill their head coaching vacancy. After extensive negotiations, Sitake and BYU have reportedly agreed on a new contract, which ESPN describes as “lucrative.” This decision concludes speculation surrounding Sitake’s future, particularly as he was a primary target for Penn State’s coaching search.
The announcement follows a successful season for BYU, culminating in a matchup against No. 5 Texas Tech in the Big 12 Championship game. Although no formal agreement had been signed as of early Tuesday afternoon, sources confirmed that Sitake had communicated his intention to remain in Provo, including to officials at Penn State.
Details of the new contract remain undisclosed, but insiders suggest it includes significant financial commitments aimed at retaining Sitake’s coaching staff, notably offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick and defensive coordinator Jay Hill. The agreement also reportedly involves increased investments in the program’s name, image, and likeness initiatives.
Sitake’s tenure at BYU has been marked by impressive success, with a record of 83 wins and 44 losses over the past decade. Under his leadership, the Cougars have participated in seven bowl games and achieved a notable 11-1 record in 2025, including an 8-1 performance in Big 12 play. His winning percentage of .747 since 2020 ranks seventh among all coaches in the Football Bowl Subdivision, trailing only elite programs such as Georgia and Alabama.
Players and alumni have expressed strong support for Sitake’s decision to stay. Evan Johnson, a defensive back for BYU, stated emphatically, “Yes, yes, yes; he’s the best coach in the nation.” This sentiment reflects the broader appreciation for Sitake’s leadership within the program.
Financial backing for BYU’s athletic programs has been bolstered by notable donors, including Min Kim, CEO of Nutricost; Jason McGowan, CEO of Crumbl; and King Husein, CEO of Span Construction and Engineering. Their contributions have positioned BYU favorably in the competitive landscape of college sports.
As the Cougars prepare for the championship game, the stability provided by Sitake’s extension could prove crucial for the program’s future. His commitment not only reinforces BYU’s ambitions but also aligns with the expectations of fans and stakeholders eager for continued success.
In summary, Kalani Sitake’s decision to remain at BYU, as reported by ESPN, underscores his dedication to the program and the strong support from both players and donors. The upcoming match against Texas Tech will serve as a significant moment for Sitake and the Cougars, as they look to build on their recent achievements.
