The Old Dog’s New Trick: Kalani Sitake’s Unconventional Playbook for 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 by outspending rivals or chasing the latest trends, but by doubling down on something far more intangible: culture. In an era where NIL deals and transfer portals dominate headlines, Sitake’s approach feels like a throwback. But is it? Or is he onto something the rest of us are missing?
The LaVell Edwards Legacy: More Than Just a Name
Sitake’s constant invocation of LaVell Edwards isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a strategic anchor. Edwards, a legend at BYU, built a program on discipline, relationships, and a deep sense of purpose. Sitake isn’t just borrowing a name—he’s adopting a philosophy. Personally, I think this is where Sitake’s genius lies. In a sport increasingly driven by transactional relationships, he’s selling something far more enduring: a sense of belonging.
What many people don’t realize is how counterintuitive this is in today’s college football landscape. While other programs are throwing millions at players, Sitake is betting on the value of camaraderie and long-term development. It’s a risky move, but one that’s paying off. His players aren’t just staying—they’re thriving. Take LJ Martin, the Big 12’s projected offensive player of the year, who openly admits college football feels easier than high school because of the culture Sitake has built. If you take a step back and think about it, that’s a remarkable achievement in a sport where pressure often crushes talent.
Money vs. Meaning: The Unspoken Battle in College Football
Sitake’s stance on NIL deals is both refreshing and provocative. He’s not denying their importance, but he’s challenging the notion that money should be the ultimate metric of success. In my opinion, this is where the broader conversation about college sports needs to go. Are we building athletes, or are we building human beings? Sitake’s answer is clear: he’s in the business of the latter.
What this really suggests is that the current NIL frenzy might be a bubble waiting to burst. Sure, throwing $40 million at a roster might win you a championship, but at what cost? Sitake’s approach raises a deeper question: Can a program sustain success without sacrificing its soul? His track record—a 12-win season and a league championship appearance—suggests it’s possible.
The Transfer Portal Paradox
Sitake’s comments on the transfer portal are equally insightful. He’s not dismissing it, but he’s urging players to think beyond the immediate. One thing that immediately stands out is his emphasis on longevity over instant gratification. In a culture that glorifies the now, this is a radical idea. But it’s also a practical one. Players who stay and develop are more likely to succeed in the long run, both on and off the field.
From my perspective, this is where Sitake’s philosophy aligns with a broader trend in sports psychology. The best athletes aren’t just talented—they’re disciplined. Sitake’s program isn’t just about winning games; it’s about building resilience, character, and a sense of purpose. That’s a detail that I find especially interesting, because it’s something you can’t buy with NIL money.
The Future of Sitake’s Old-School Approach
Will Sitake’s method work in the long term? It’s hard to say. College football is evolving at breakneck speed, and what works today might not work tomorrow. But here’s what I find compelling: Sitake isn’t trying to keep up with the Joneses. He’s carving his own path, one rooted in tradition and human connection.
If he follows in LaVell Edwards’ footsteps, his tenure could span decades. And why not? If the goal is to build something lasting, why rush it? Sitake’s approach might not be for everyone, but it’s undeniably authentic. In a sport where authenticity is increasingly rare, that might just be his greatest strength.
Final Thoughts: The Circus Ride vs. the Lottery Ticket
Sitake’s players might not be cashing in lottery tickets, but they’re enjoying the ride. And isn’t that what sports should be about? Joy, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence? Sitake’s program isn’t perfect, but it’s a refreshing reminder of what’s possible when you prioritize people over profits.
Personally, I think the rest of college football could learn a thing or two from the old dog. After all, in a world obsessed with instant results, Sitake’s willingness to play the long game might just be his greatest trick.
