As Brigham Young University (BYU) enters a new chapter in its athletic journey with its transition to the Big 12 Conference, the stakes for its football program have never been higher. For years, BYU has been a standout independent program, playing a challenging schedule that showcased the Cougars’ grit and tenacity. But now, as they join a power conference, they face not just the challenge of competing at a higher level, but the opportunity to redefine what it means to be a BYU football player in the modern era.
At the heart of this transformation is Kalani Sitake, who has become synonymous with BYU’s evolving identity. As head coach, Sitake has helped cultivate a winning culture that reflects both the football field and the community spirit of BYU. When Sitake took over as head coach in 2016, the program was at a crossroads, struggling to find its identity after years of success under previous coaches. But Sitake, a former BYU player and longtime assistant coach, brought with him not just a deep knowledge of the game but a profound understanding of what it means to represent the school. His leadership has already proven to be a catalyst for the transformation of the program’s culture.
Now, as the team prepares to face Big 12 opponents, Sitake is focused on establishing a clear precedent that will guide the team through this new era. He’s not just looking to win football games; he’s setting the stage for a new standard of excellence that goes beyond X’s and O’s. Central to this is an emphasis on discipline, family, and faith, values that have always been at the core of BYU’s identity. Sitake’s approach is grounded in developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel not only in football but in life, balancing academics, social responsibility, and spiritual growth.
In the Big 12, the Cougars will face a gauntlet of talented teams, many of whom have been at the top of college football for years. This new competition will force BYU to step up its game, but Sitake believes that his players have the right mindset. “We’re not here to just survive; we’re here to thrive,” Sitake often says. Under his leadership, the Cougars are developing a resilient mindset that will serve them well against some of the nation’s toughest opponents.
But establishing a precedent in the Big 12 isn’t just about bringing in elite talent; it’s about making sure that every player understands the culture they are a part of. Sitake has made it clear that the foundation of this culture is built on trust, accountability, and the pursuit of greatness. Every player is expected to give their all, not just for themselves but for their teammates, their coaches, and the university. This culture, instilled from the first day a player steps on campus, will be crucial as BYU seeks to carve out its place in one of the most competitive conferences in the country.
Additionally, Sitake has been adamant about the importance of leadership within the locker room. While coaching and strategy are essential, Sitake knows that the best teams are those where players hold each other accountable and push one another to be the best versions of themselves. Under Sitake’s guidance, team captains are more than just vocal leaders; they are mentors who shape the attitudes and behaviors of the team.
As BYU enters the Big 12 era, the program’s commitment to family values and spiritual growth continues to be the backbone of everything they do. The program is deeply rooted in a culture that demands excellence but never loses sight of the personal and communal aspects of the game. Kalani Sitake has made it clear: this is a new era for BYU football, one where the Cougars will not just participate—they will compete at the highest level, all while remaining true to their identity.
Through the hard work and commitment of coaches and players alike, BYU is setting a precedent that will reverberate across the college football landscape. Kalani Sitake is not just re-establishing the culture of BYU football; he’s helping lead the Cougars into a future where they are ready to make their mark in the Big 12, earning respect and establishing a legacy that will last for generations to come.
