The Old Dog’s New Trick: How Kalani Sitake is Redefining College Football Success
There’s something almost poetic about Kalani Sitake’s current position in college football. Suddenly, he’s the longest-tenured coach in the Big 12, a league known for its volatility and high-stakes drama. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Sitake got here—not through flashy NIL deals or blockbuster transfers, but by doubling down on something far more intangible: culture.
The LaVell Edwards Legacy: More Than Just a Name
Sitake’s constant invocation of LaVell Edwards isn’t just a nostalgic nod to BYU’s past; it’s a deliberate strategy. Edwards, a legend in college football, built his success on relationships, discipline, and a deep sense of community. Sitake is essentially saying, ‘This is my North Star.’ But here’s the thing: in today’s college football landscape, where NIL deals are throwing millions at players and coaches alike, this approach feels almost countercultural.
Personally, I think Sitake’s commitment to the Edwards philosophy is both bold and risky. In a world where Texas Tech is rumored to have a $40 million roster and LSU is throwing treasure chests at players, Sitake’s focus on ‘non-monetary compensation’ feels like a throwback. But what many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just idealism—it’s a calculated bet. Sitake is wagering that players will value long-term development, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging over instant financial gratification.
The NIL Era: A Game-Changer or a Distraction?
The rise of NIL has turned college football into something of a Wild West. Coaches are now not just recruiters but fundraisers, and players are increasingly treated like free agents. Sitake’s stance on this is refreshingly blunt: ‘If it’s about their checking account, we probably aren’t going to be the best place for you.’ This isn’t just a recruiting pitch; it’s a statement of values.
From my perspective, Sitake’s approach raises a deeper question: What does success in college football really mean? Is it about winning championships at all costs, or is it about building something sustainable, something that outlasts the hype and the headlines? Sitake seems to believe the latter, and his 12-win season last year suggests he might be onto something.
The Player Perspective: Fun Over Pressure
One detail that I find especially interesting is how Sitake’s players are responding. Take LJ Martin, the Big 12’s projected offensive player of the year. He recently said, ‘It feels like games are just easier than practice… I’m out there like a kid, enjoying the moment.’ This isn’t just a feel-good quote; it’s a testament to Sitake’s ability to create an environment where players thrive under pressure rather than crumble.
What this really suggests is that Sitake’s philosophy isn’t just about winning—it’s about creating an experience. In a sport where burnout and mental health are increasingly pressing issues, Sitake’s focus on joy and camaraderie feels like a breath of fresh air.
The Broader Implications: Can Sitake’s Model Scale?
Here’s where things get really intriguing. If Sitake continues to succeed, it could challenge the prevailing narrative that NIL money is the only path to dominance. But let’s be honest: this model isn’t for everyone. It requires a specific kind of player, a specific kind of buy-in, and a specific kind of patience.
If you take a step back and think about it, Sitake’s approach is a bit like artisanal football in an era of mass production. It’s slower, more deliberate, and deeply personal. But in a sport that often feels like it’s losing its soul, maybe that’s exactly what’s needed.
The Future: Can the Old Dog Keep Up?
Sitake himself admits he doesn’t know how long he’ll be around, but he’s clear about one thing: ‘If I’m having fun, if I’m keeping my passion and love for the game high, then there are many 11- and 12-win seasons on the horizon.’ This isn’t just optimism; it’s a philosophy.
In my opinion, Sitake’s biggest challenge won’t be competing with deeper pockets—it’ll be maintaining this culture as the stakes get higher and the pressure mounts. Can he keep the fun alive while still delivering results? Only time will tell.
Final Thoughts: A Different Kind of Victory
What Sitake is doing at BYU isn’t just about winning games; it’s about redefining what success looks like in college football. Personally, I think this is one of the most compelling stories in sports right now. It’s not about who has the biggest wallet—it’s about who has the biggest heart.
And if Sitake’s approach continues to pay off, it might just force the rest of us to rethink what we value in this sport. After all, as he puts it, ‘Compensation comes in different forms.’ Maybe, just maybe, the most valuable currency in college football isn’t money—it’s meaning.
