Penn State Eyes Kalani Sitake Amid Coaching Carousel Drama
December 3, 2025
Penn State is reportedly weighing Kalani Sitake of BYU as its next head coach amid a crowded coaching carousel, signaling a high-stakes decision for the program.
Sitake has signaled commitment to BYU beyond this season by staying for at least a eleventh year, including the upcoming Big 12 Championship game against Texas Tech.
A BYU benefactor, Jason McGowan, backed Sitake publicly, pledging funding support and fan-driven campaigns to bolster his candidacy through endorsements and sweepstakes.
observers worry the extended, highly public search could be perceived as dysfunction rather than a well-structured strategy.
The reporting highlights volatility in Penn State’s odds and the evolving landscape of college football coaching markets, especially with postseason urgency.
Fans weigh candidate strengths and potential effects on recruiting and the early signing period, signaling how the hire could reshape roster decisions.
Internal dynamics and external pressures, including booster influence and agent relationships, are shaping the final decision landscape.
Experts caution against overpaying or overreacting in the hire, noting that on-field talent acquisition ultimately determines success more than big salaries.
Promotions and external links (e.g., Peacock) appear in coverage, but the core focus remains the coaching search and blockers it faces.
Social media reflects mixed reactions and a flood of candidate suggestions, underscoring the volatile, public nature of the process.
The move could have broader implications for Penn State’s recruiting, program planning, and competitive trajectory as the search unfolds.
Readers are directed to dedicated profiles and a VIP thread for real-time updates on the Penn State search.
Summary based on 82 sources
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Sources

The Athletic • Dec 2, 2025
Is Penn State close to a coaching hire? What we’re hearing about Kalani Sitake and more
The Athletic • Dec 3, 2025
Kalani Sitake will stay at BYU despite strong interest from Penn State
USA TODAY • Dec 2, 2025
Penn State football coaching latest news: BYU's Kalani Sitake 'the focus'
New York Post • Dec 3, 2025
Kalani Sitake staying at BYU as Penn State's coaching search drags on