Latest news in Penn State football coaching: BYU's Kalani Sitake is the main focus

Penn State dismissed James Franklin on October 12, leaving the program as the most prominent vacancy in this years college football coaching carousel. While Franklin quickly secured a new position, Penn State continues its search for a successor. Historically, being linked to the Nittany Lions job has been considered a strong career move.

Several names have surfaced during the search, including Western Pennsylvania native Curt Cignetti (Indiana), PSU alumnus Matt Rhule (Nebraska), Eli Drinkwitz (Missouri), and Clark Lea (Vanderbilt). Most of these candidates have since signed new contracts elsewhere. Meanwhile, the Southeastern Conference coaching frenzy has dominated headlines, temporarily leaving State College on the sidelines.

Recent Developments

Virginia Tech has appointed James Franklin as its new head coach, replacing Brent Pry, who was dismissed midseason. Franklins return to coaching comes shortly after his firing from Penn State.

BYU's Kalani Sitake Becomes Penn States Main Focus

According to an ESPN report from December 1 by Pete Thamel, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake is now "the focus" of Penn State's hiring efforts. Sitake, a 50-year-old BYU alumnus, has elevated the Cougars into one of the top programs in the Big 12, guiding the team to the Big 12 Championship game with a potential College Football Playoff berth at stake.

Sources confirm that discussions are ongoing between Sitake and Penn State, with mutual interest but no agreement yet finalized. Sitake addressed the speculation, stating that his attention remains on the Big 12 Championship and keeping his team focused, while acknowledging the interest as a positive sign for his program.

Other Coaching Moves

Bob Chesney, previously mentioned as a potential Penn State candidate, has accepted the head coaching position at UCLA. Meanwhile, predictive markets like Kalshi list Sitake and former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll as the favorites for the Penn State job.

Internal Candidates and Player Support

Interim coach Terry Smith led Penn State to a 3-3 record after Franklins departure, helping the team reach bowl eligibility. Players actively supported Smith for the permanent role, displaying signs and chanting his name following a victory over Nebraska. Smith expressed pride in his team and emphasized the importance of their trust and commitment on the field.

Other Speculations

Tennessees Josh Heupel has been suggested by analysts as a potential Penn State candidate, though he is not currently a frontrunner. Experts note that while Heupels stock has faced challenges in Tennessee, he could provide a solid option for a program like Penn State, which aims for a playoff berth.

Author: Sophia Brooks