Hold onto your helmets, college football fans, because the coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever! The latest buzz in the sports world revolves around BYU's head football coach, Kalani Sitake, and his potential move to Penn State. But here's where it gets controversial: while rumors have been swirling for days, Sitake himself has remained tight-lipped, even during a press conference for the upcoming Big 12 Championship game against Texas Tech. So, what’s really going on?
Over the weekend and into Monday, whispers about Sitake’s possible departure from BYU to take the reins at Penn State grew louder. And this is the part most people miss: despite the chatter, no official deal has been finalized—yet. On Monday evening, the speculation gained traction when multiple national college football reporters confirmed that Sitake is indeed Penn State’s top candidate. However, they all emphasized that negotiations are still ongoing.
On3 was the first to break the news, reporting that Sitake is the Nittany Lions’ primary target. Brett McMurphy, Chris Low, and Pete Nakos added that the two parties have been in ‘extensive conversations’ in recent weeks. On3 also revealed that Penn State is prepared to offer Sitake a lucrative salary package, which could include defensive coordinator Jay Hill. But is money enough to lure Sitake away from BYU?
ESPN’s Pete Thamel chimed in on X, stating that Sitake is the focal point of Penn State’s coaching search. While no contract has been signed, both sides have discussed staffing and other details of what Sitake’s tenure in State College might look like. Thamel noted, however, that there are still steps to be taken before any deal is finalized. Sitake himself has stressed that his current focus remains on the Big 12 title game, a point that has left fans and analysts alike wondering about his long-term plans.
NBC Sports’ Nicole Auerbach echoed these sentiments, confirming that Sitake is at the center of Penn State’s search but reiterating that no agreement has been reached. Meanwhile, The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman reported that Sitake has emerged as the strongest candidate, though a resolution doesn’t seem imminent. Feldman also noted that Sitake’s name has gained the most traction over the past week, with sources indicating he’s among a small group of finalists.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Is Sitake the right fit for Penn State, or should he stay loyal to BYU? Penn State has been searching for a replacement since firing James Franklin back in October, and the pressure to find the perfect candidate is mounting. Sitake’s success at BYU has undoubtedly caught their eye, but leaving a program he’s helped build could be a tough decision.
What do you think? Is Sitake the answer for Penn State, or should he stay put? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over!
