In an era where loyalty in college football often takes a back seat to dollar signs and power conference prestige, Brigham Young University’s head coach Kalani Sitake delivered a thunderous reminder of what true commitment looks like. Sitake, 49, stunned the college football landscape this week by turning down a staggering $7.5 million annual offer from powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame, both of whom were eager to lure the seasoned coach away from Provo.
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that both schools launched aggressive campaigns to sign Sitake, with Georgia offering a five-year, $37.5 million deal and full control over football operations. Notre Dame’s offer was similarly lucrative, dangling elite facilities, national recruiting pipelines, and a legacy-rich program in front of the Tongan-American coach. But in the end, Sitake refused both.
“I have no plans beyond being the BYU head coach,” Sitake told reporters during a press conference filled with emotion, humility, and an unmistakable undertone of pride. “This is more than just a job to me. It’s a calling.”
Sitake’s decision to remain in Provo is being hailed as a rare act of devotion in a sport increasingly driven by financial incentives and championship aspirations. While many coaches might have leapt at the opportunity to lead a blue-blood program into the College Football Playoff conversation, Sitake doubled down on his commitment to BYU—his alma mater, his home, and the institution that first gave him the reins in 2016.
Under his leadership, the Cougars have risen from an independent wildcard to a Big 12 contender, posting multiple double-digit win seasons and fielding NFL-caliber talent. But more than wins, Sitake has transformed BYU football into a beacon of culture, unity, and spiritual purpose—a reflection of his values and leadership.
“He’s not just a coach, he’s a builder,” said Athletic Director Tom Holmoe. “Kalani has built something at BYU that money can’t buy.”
Players past and present praised the coach for his unwavering authenticity. Star quarterback Kody Epps took to social media to write, “Coach Sitake doesn’t chase opportunities—he builds them. BYU is lucky. We all are.”
College football analysts were equally floored. ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit tweeted, “This is one of the boldest, most refreshing moves I’ve seen in a long time. Sitake chooses heart over hype.”
While Georgia and Notre Dame will move on in their high-profile coaching searches, Sitake’s decision has reignited conversations about loyalty and purpose in college athletics. As the spotlight shines on the programs he turned down, BYU quietly glows with pride, knowing that they still have the heart and soul of their program exactly where he belongs.
Sitake ended the press conference with a smile and a simple phrase that might just define his legacy: “I’m all in—Cougar Nation, let’s go to work.”
