Penn State Has Backup Plan as Kalani Sitake Thinks About Future

Penn State’s search for its next head coach is getting serious, and the school is making sure it has options. BYU head coach Kalani Sitake is still the top choice, but the Nittany Lions are also preparing a Plan B in case he decides to stay with the Cougars.

The latest buzz started after Barstool Sports’ Liam Blutman posted a screenshot of a flight going from Columbus to State College. The private jet used the call sign EJA640A, and many fans quickly pointed out that it could be connected to Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline. Blutman suggested that Hartline might be heading in for an interview.

Hartline has been one of the fastest-rising names in college football coaching. He has already been mentioned for several job openings, including Kentucky. Known for his strong recruiting skills, he was named the National Recruiter of the Year by 247Sports in 2020. At Ohio State, he worked his way up from a quality control assistant to offensive coordinator and helped build one of the best wide receiver groups in the country.

Even with Hartline in the picture, Penn State still hopes Sitake will be interested. But Sitake’s answer this week didn’t give much away. When asked about Penn State again, he said his focus was on BYU’s goals.

ESPN reporter Pete Thamel added more details, saying Sitake remains the main target for Penn State and that both sides have already met.

Kalani Sitake has lots of reasons to stay at BYU. This is his 10th season leading the Cougars, and he has built a strong program with an 83-44 record. Since joining the Big 12 in 2024, BYU has posted an impressive 22-3 record. Kalani Sitake also has a close relationship with BYU leadership, and he was named a senior associate athletic director this past July.

If he leaves before the conference championship game, it could impact BYU’s chances at both a Big 12 title and a national title shot. His choice will be a big one, and the timing makes it even tougher.

For now, Penn State is waiting. If Kalani Sitake says yes, he becomes the new face of the program. If not, Brian Hartline could be next in line. The decision should come soon, and it will affect two major programs in a big way.

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