Penn State Seeks New Head Football Coach for 2025
The Penn State Nittany Lions are in search of a new head football coach for the upcoming 2025 season. Following the dismissal of James Franklin on October 12, the university has been exploring potential candidates for over 50 days.
Penn State’s Head Coaching Search: Key Candidates
Currently, the top candidate identified by credible sources is Kalani Sitake, the head coach of BYU. Sitake has been at the helm of the Cougars for nearly ten years. Under his leadership, BYU boasts an impressive record of 11-1 this season and is preparing to face Texas Tech in the Big 12 title game.
Kalani Sitake: A Strong Contender
Kalani Sitake was one of the earliest candidates interviewed by Penn State and has made a significant impression on the university’s athletic director, Pat Kraft. His coaching style emphasizes toughness, physicality, and a robust strategy for team development through high school recruiting and the transfer portal.
- Previous coaching experience: Nearly a decade with BYU.
- Current season record: 11-1.
- Upcoming matchup: Big 12 title game against Texas Tech.
Other Considerations
While Sitake is the leading candidate, there was also notable interest in Mike Elko, the head coach of Texas A&M. However, Sitake appears to be the primary focus at this stage in the hiring process.
The university is not expected to finalize a hire this week, especially with BYU’s imminent game on Saturday. Nonetheless, there is a possibility that discussions could lead to a signed contract shortly after that matchup.
Coaching Reminders from Sitake
In a recent press conference, Sitake addressed the coaching rumors surrounding him. He reiterated the importance of focusing on team goals and maintaining clarity amid speculation. “It’s required of us to be at our best to play against Texas Tech,” he remarked, stressing that the team should not be distracted by external talks.
As the Nittany Lions continue their pursuit of a new head coach, the football community will be keenly watching for announcements regarding Sitake’s potential hiring and the program’s direction for the upcoming season.
