Kalani Sitake’s reflections on BYU’s 2024 football season reveal a coach deeply committed to growth, accountability, and the pursuit of excellence. Despite an impressive 10-win regular season, the Cougars fell short of qualifying for the Big 12 Championship Game and the newly expanded College Football Playoffs. For Sitake, that near-miss wasn’t just a disappointment—it became a rallying cry.
“We’ll figure it out, we’ll find out,” he said, emphasizing his role in ensuring the team performs at its peak. His candid admission—“not consistently enough for me”—speaks volumes. It’s not just about wins and losses; it’s about the standard of play, the discipline, and the execution that define championship-caliber football. Sitake’s words reflect a coach who isn’t satisfied with good. He wants great.
The 2024 season was a rollercoaster. BYU started strong, even flirting with playoff contention mid-season. But late losses to Kansas and Arizona State derailed their momentum, exposing vulnerabilities in consistency and focus. Sitake’s post-season comments suggest he’s not brushing those setbacks aside. Instead, he’s using them as fuel.
For the players, that message resonates. Sitake has cultivated a culture where accountability is shared. The team’s success isn’t just about talent—it’s about preparation, resilience, and unity. Missing out on the championship game was a bitter pill, but it also became a lesson. The Cougars learned that even a 10-win season isn’t enough if those wins aren’t earned with precision and grit.
Heading into the 2025 season, Sitake’s leadership is more vital than ever. He’s not just coaching football; he’s shaping a mindset. His players know that every snap, every drive, and every decision matters. The margin for error in a competitive conference like the Big 12 is razor-thin. Sitake’s challenge is to instill the kind of consistency that turns potential into performance.
What makes Sitake’s approach compelling is his humility. He doesn’t deflect blame or make excuses. He owns the shortcomings and sets the tone for improvement. That authenticity builds trust—not just within the locker room, but across the fanbase. BYU supporters know their coach is all-in, and that commitment inspires belief.
As fall approaches, the Cougars aren’t just chasing wins—they’re chasing redemption. The sting of being left out of the championship conversation still lingers, but it’s also sharpening their focus. Sitake’s mantra—“play at our best”—is more than a slogan. It’s a standard. And if BYU can meet it, they won’t just be contenders. They’ll be champions.
In the end, Sitake’s response to adversity is what defines him. He doesn’t dwell on what was lost. He builds toward what’s next. And for BYU, what’s next could be something special.
