Patrick Kinahan: Sitake Juggles BYU and Penn State Opportunities

Kalani Sitake, the head coach of BYU football, is at the center of attention regarding the vacant head coaching position at Penn State. His potential move comes after James Franklin was dismissed from the position earlier this season. During a media event promoting the upcoming Big 12 Championship game, Sitake sidestepped questions about his interest in the prestigious position.

Current Opportunities for Sitake and BYU

Multiple reports indicate that Sitake is a frontrunner to take over at Penn State. This speculation has intensified as BYU prepares to face Texas Tech at AT&T Stadium on Saturday. The team’s performance in this game is crucial for their playoff aspirations.

• Current Record: BYU holds an 11-win season, comparable to Texas Tech.
• Upcoming Game: BYU vs. Texas Tech on Saturday.
• Penn State Head Coach: James Franklin was recently fired.

Addressing the Speculation

Sitake acknowledged the rumors surrounding his potential shift to Penn State, referring to them as a “good distraction.” He stated his focus remains on the team’s goals and emphasized the importance of maintaining concentration on the upcoming game.

“I’ve asked our team to be focused on what we can control,” Sitake remarked, highlighting the need to minimize distractions during this critical time.

Historical Context and Challenges

Coaches in similar positions have often faced challenges when rumors swirl. For instance, past incidents have seen teams struggle when their coaches were rumored to be leaving for other opportunities. BYU’s history against Texas Tech adds another layer of challenge, as the Cougars previously suffered a defeat to the Red Raiders in Lubbock earlier this season.

Future Implications for BYU

For BYU to retain Sitake and enhance its competitiveness, improvements in his salary and program resources may be necessary. He signed a long-term contract through the 2027 season in December 2021, but his compensation is considered significantly lower than what Penn State might offer.

This situation highlights the ongoing coaching carousel in college football, which often influences team dynamics as postseason approaches. As speculation continues, both BYU and Sitake must navigate these turbulent waters effectively.