BYU has named Oregon State defensive coordinator Kalani Sitake as its new head coach, filling one of the last high-profile openings in what has been a busy month for coaching turnover at the collegiate level.
Terms of Sitake's contract were not included in the school's release on the hire.
Sitake is a former BYU fullback, but got most of his coaching experience as a defensive assistant at BYU's rival, Utah. He coached linebackers in Salt Lake City beginning in 2005, and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2008. His Oregon State defense struggled this season, allowing 481.5 yards per game.
"I'm honored, excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead the BYU football program," Sitake said. "I'm grateful for everything BYU gave me as a player. It's a dream come true for me to return home. I love the university and what it stands for and I'm looking forward to helping the young men in the program reach their goals athletically, academically and spiritually."
BYU also considered Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo for the job, but Niumatalolo opted to stay with the Midshipmen.
Sitake replaces Bronco Mendenhall, who coached his final game with the Cougars Saturday against Utah in the Royal Purple Las Vegas Bowl. Mendenhall accepted the Virginia job earlier this month, but stayed on to coach BYU through its bowl appearance.
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