Tue Dec 02 01:10:00 UTC 2025: ## BYU Coach Kalani Sitake Dodges Penn State Rumors Amidst Playoff Hopes

Provo, UT – BYU head football coach Kalani Sitake found himself at the center of attention during a Big 12 media availability on Monday, not just for the upcoming conference championship game against Texas Tech, but also for rampant speculation linking him to the vacant head coaching position at Penn State.

Despite the Cougars boasting an impressive 11-1 record and a potential playoff berth on the line, multiple reports have pegged Sitake as a leading candidate to replace James Franklin, who was surprisingly dismissed by Penn State despite a successful season.

During the media event, Sitake artfully dodged direct questions about his interest in the Big Ten program, emphasizing his focus on the upcoming game. “This isn’t about me,” Sitake stated, adding that he has urged his team to remain focused on their goals and not get caught up in distractions.

However, the timing of the rumors couldn’t be worse for BYU. The Cougars are preparing for a crucial matchup against Texas Tech at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. A loss could jeopardize their chances of receiving an at-large bid to the College Football Playoff. The Red Raiders, who convincingly defeated BYU earlier in the season, are considered the favorites.

While Sitake downplayed the potential disruption, the possibility of losing their head coach – especially one known for demanding unwavering focus – is undoubtedly a significant distraction for the team. Some analysts believe that even if Sitake is simply using the Penn State interest as leverage for a better contract at BYU, the rumors themselves could negatively impact the team’s performance.

History offers cautionary tales. Oregon suffered a crushing defeat in the Pac-12 championship game amidst rumors of their coach leaving, and Oklahoma lost to Oklahoma State in what turned out to be Lincoln Riley’s last game before departing for USC.

Pressed further on the Penn State rumors, Sitake maintained his focus on the Big 12 championship, stating, “I’m all about the Big 12 championship, so I’m going to avoid all the distractions.”

The situation highlights the annual coaching carousel that often sees new hires made before the end of the season, creating instability and potential distractions for teams in crucial postseason moments.

For BYU, the best-case scenario is for Sitake’s deep-rooted loyalty to the university to prevail. However, to ensure that outcome, BYU may need to significantly increase Sitake’s salary and invest further in the football program to remain competitive with wealthier programs like Texas Tech. Sitake signed an extension through 2027 in December 2021, but his salary is widely believed to be far below what Penn State would offer. The university has shown a willingness to invest in athletics, as evidenced by their recent substantial offer to lure basketball coach Kevin Young.

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