BYU head coach Kalani Sitake faces potential staff changes as Utah's Kyle Whittingham takes the Michigan job, which may lead to assistant coach departures, especially defensive coordinator Jay Hill, but Sitake remains optimistic about maintaining a competitive team through strategic staffing and long-term planning.
BYU, ranked No. 18 and undefeated at 5-0, is set to face Arizona, which has a strong defense and a talented secondary. Experts highlight BYU's improved coaching, solid defense, and effective offense led by QB Aaron Roderick and RB LJ Martin. Despite recent dominance over Arizona, the prediction favors Arizona 24-20, citing injuries and the strength of Arizona's defense as key factors.
BYU football is dealing with multiple injuries ahead of their game against East Carolina, including key players JoJo Phillips, Choe Bryant-Strother, and Justin Kirkland, but offensive lineman Weylin Lapuaho is expected to return. Coach Kalani Sitake dismissed rumors linking him to the UCLA coaching job. The team, after a 2-0 start, remains uncertain as they face their first road game of the season.
BYU's football team, led by coach Kalani Sitake, seeks to earn national respect by winning the Alamo Bowl against Colorado on December 28. Despite a strong 10-2 season, BYU remains on the fringe of national recognition, ranked 17th in the College Football Playoff rankings. The game against Colorado, featuring high-profile players and coach Deion Sanders, offers BYU a significant opportunity to make a lasting impression and potentially improve their standing for the next season.
BYU football coach Kalani Sitake is prioritizing fit over flash in building the 2025 signing class, which currently includes 18 high school recruits. The focus is on players who align with BYU's program values both on and off the field. The class, ranked 55th nationally, includes a mix of offensive and defensive players, with an emphasis on offensive linemen. Many recruits plan to serve missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before enrolling. Sitake emphasizes culture and development over immediate talent acquisition.
BYU's hopes for a Big 12 championship game berth are still alive despite a recent 28-23 loss to Arizona State, but the team has struggled in November, losing control of its destiny after a strong 9-0 start. To qualify for the championship, BYU must beat Houston and rely on other game outcomes. The Cougars have faced issues with execution, including dropped passes and poor defense, and need to return to their earlier form to avoid last-minute game situations.
BYU Cougars, ranked No. 14, are preparing to face No. 21 Arizona State after a disappointing loss to Kansas, which ended their perfect season. Coach Kalani Sitake emphasizes the importance of refocusing and improving red zone execution as they aim to secure a spot in the Big 12 conference championship. Both teams have exceeded preseason expectations, making this matchup crucial for their playoff aspirations. Sitake stresses the need for better practice efficiency and execution, while players highlight the team's resilient identity and determination to bounce back.
After BYU's first season in the Big 12, head coach Kalani Sitake and his team are reflecting on their performance and potential changes to the program. Despite a tough loss to Oklahoma State, Sitake praised his seniors and expressed belief in the team's ability to compete in the Big 12. However, with the Cougars missing out on a bowl game for just the second time in 19 years, attention has turned to the offensive side of the ball, where improvements are needed. Sitake hinted at forthcoming changes, particularly in areas such as offensive coordinator, offensive line coach, wide receivers coach, and running backs coach. The team's offensive struggles, ranking near the bottom nationally in total yardage and rushing offense, have raised questions about potential shakeups in the coaching staff.
A poor play call and subsequent interception cost BYU football a chance to upset Oklahoma, as the Sooners capitalized on the turnover to take a 24-17 lead. Despite a late touchdown drive to tie the game, BYU ultimately fell short, with turnovers proving costly throughout the game. Coach Kalani Sitake acknowledged the mistake and emphasized the importance of ball security in order to compete against strong teams.
BYU quarterback Kedon Slovis struggled in a 35-6 loss to the Texas Longhorns, committing three turnovers and failing to spark the sluggish BYU offense. Despite calls for backup QB Jake Retzlaff to be given a chance, head coach Kalani Sitake defended Slovis, attributing the offensive struggles to protection issues. Slovis' interceptions were not entirely his fault, with one being tipped at the line of scrimmage and the other bouncing off a receiver's hands. Sitake emphasized the need to improve protection for Slovis and gave no indication of benching him.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, a former BYU quarterback, praised his alma mater ahead of the No. 7 Longhorns' Big 12 matchup against BYU. Sarkisian commended BYU's coaching staff, veteran team, and their tough and focused playing style. He also highlighted BYU's ability to take care of the football and create turnovers. Sarkisian predicted that BYU's defense will show new tactics to confuse Texas' backup quarterback, who will be making his first career start. Despite being the underdogs, Sarkisian expects a competitive game and expressed his respect for BYU's coaches. Sarkisian also shared fond memories of playing under legendary BYU coach LaVell Edwards, emphasizing Edwards' belief in his players and his lighthearted nature.