Kalani Sitake Emerges as Leading Candidate for Penn State Head Coaching Position
BYU head football coach Kalani Sitake has become the primary focus of Penn State University's search for a new head coach, according to sources speaking to ESPN's Pete Thamel. The report confirms mutual interest between Sitake and Penn State, with discussions having taken place regarding staffing and program vision. Sitake, who has led BYU to an 11-1 record and a Big 12 championship game appearance this season, maintains his immediate focus is on his current team's upcoming contest.
In a significant development in the college football coaching carousel, Brigham Young University (BYU) head coach Kalani Sitake has emerged as the central figure in Penn State University's search for its next football leader. Sources confirmed to ESPN's Pete Thamel that Sitake is the current focus of the Nittany Lions' search, a report that aligns with earlier information from On3. This potential move would mark a major transition for both a successful coach and a storied Big Ten program seeking new direction.
The Current State of Negotiations
According to the ESPN report, preliminary discussions between Sitake and Penn State officials have already occurred, indicating a level of mutual interest. However, sources emphasize that no formal agreement has been reached. The negotiations are reportedly in a phase where both sides are exploring the practical details of what a partnership would entail. This includes discussions about assistant coaching staff, program philosophy, and the overall structure of the football operation under Sitake's potential leadership. The absence of a signed deal suggests other candidates or internal deliberations may still be in play, but Sitake's status as the "focus" of the search positions him as the leading contender.
Kalani Sitake's Coaching Profile
Kalani Sitake, 50, has built a formidable resume during his tenure at his alma mater. A former BYU fullback, Sitake took over the Cougars' program in 2016 after serving as a highly regarded defensive coordinator at both the University of Utah and Oregon State. His head coaching record at BYU stands at 83-44, demonstrating consistent competitiveness. The 2025 season has been particularly strong, with BYU compiling an 11-1 record, securing a spot in the Big 12 championship game against Texas Tech, and earning a No. 11 ranking in the latest College Football Playoff poll. His success is built on strong defensive principles and a culture that resonates with players.
The Vacancy at Penn State
Penn State is seeking a permanent replacement for James Franklin, who was dismissed midway through his 12th season following a disappointing 3-3 start that included losses to UCLA and Northwestern. Franklin has since been hired by Virginia Tech. The Penn State job is considered one of the premier positions in college football, offering vast resources, a massive fan base, and membership in the powerhouse Big Ten Conference. The search committee is tasked with finding a coach who can restore the program to national championship contention, a standard expected in Happy Valley.
Immediate Priorities and Potential Impact
Despite the swirling rumors, Coach Sitake has publicly stressed that his immediate focus remains on preparing BYU for the Big 12 championship game. Navigating this situation requires balancing current obligations with future opportunities, a common challenge during coaching searches. For Penn State, securing a coach of Sitake's caliber would signal a strong commitment to returning to elite status. His proven ability to build a successful program at BYU, including navigating conference realignment, would be valuable assets in leading the Nittany Lions. The coming days will be critical as both parties determine if this potential match will proceed to a formal agreement.
