BREAKING NEWS: Former byu cougar football head coach Bronco Mendenhall who is the head coach at Utah State University sent a message to Byu cougar football head coach Kalani Sitake concerning…see more

In a development that has captured the attention of college football fans across Utah and beyond, former BYU Cougars head coach Bronco Mendenhall, who is now leading Utah State University’s football program, has reached out with a heartfelt and strategic message to current BYU head coach Kalani Sitake.

The communication, described by insiders as both encouraging and candid, comes at a pivotal moment for BYU football as the program continues to navigate the challenges of competing in the Big 12 Conference.

A Connection Rooted in Shared History

Bronco Mendenhall’s ties to BYU run deep. Serving as the Cougars’ head coach from 2005 to 2015, he compiled an impressive 99–43 record and established BYU as a perennial bowl contender. His disciplined approach, focus on defense, and commitment to building character in his players left a lasting mark on the program.

Kalani Sitake, who played linebacker at BYU during the late 1990s, succeeded Mendenhall after his departure to Virginia in 2015. Sitake has since forged his own legacy, guiding the Cougars through an era of independence and now into the Big 12, where the stakes are higher and the spotlight brighter.

Despite leading different programs today, the mutual respect between Mendenhall and Sitake remains strong. This latest message is a testament to that enduring bond.

The Message: A Blend of Advice, Encouragement, and Challenge

While the exact details of Mendenhall’s message have not been fully disclosed, sources close to both coaches revealed key themes that highlight its significance:

1. Encouragement Amid Big 12 Challenges
   Mendenhall reportedly acknowledged the steep transition BYU faces in competing against powerhouse programs like Texas, Oklahoma State, and Baylor. His words of encouragement were aimed at reminding Sitake and his players that BYU’s history of resilience can serve as their foundation in the new conference landscape.

   “The Big 12 is unforgiving, but BYU has never been about taking the easy road. Stay true to the principles that make Cougar football unique.”

2. Emphasis on Player Development and Culture
   A hallmark of Mendenhall’s BYU tenure was his emphasis on building men of integrity alongside athletes. He urged Sitake to continue fostering a culture that values character, leadership, and academic success as much as wins on the field.

   “The scoreboard fades, but who these young men become will define the program’s legacy.”

3. A Reminder of Rivalry Spirit
   Perhaps the most intriguing part of the message was Mendenhall’s nod to the historic BYU–Utah rivalry, also known as the “Holy War.” Now at Utah State, Mendenhall encouraged Sitake to embrace rivalries as opportunities to galvanize the fan base and instill pride in the program.

   “Rivalries sharpen programs and fuel traditions. Never shy away from the fire—they keep the spirit of college football alive.”

4. A Call to Innovation
   Mendenhall also hinted at the importance of adapting in an era of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and transfer portal dynamics. He challenged Sitake to find innovative ways to ensure BYU remains competitive in recruiting and retaining top talent.

Kalani Sitake’s Response

Sitake, known for his humility and player-first approach, welcomed Mendenhall’s words with gratitude. In a brief statement released through BYU’s athletic department, Sitake said:

“Bronco has always been a mentor and friend. His message is a reminder of the tradition we carry and the responsibility we have to keep building. I’m grateful for his support and his example as a coach and leader.”

Behind the scenes, Sitake is said to be sharing parts of the message with his coaching staff and leadership council, using it as motivation heading into the new season.

The Symbolism of This Exchange

For many fans and alumni, Mendenhall’s outreach symbolizes continuity in BYU’s football journey. Though the program has seen coaching transitions and conference changes, its core values of discipline, integrity, and resilience remain intact.

This gesture also underscores the unique culture of BYU athletics, where faith, mentorship, and long-term development often carry as much weight as on-field achievements.

Reaction From the BYU Community

The Cougar faithful have reacted with enthusiasm to reports of Mendenhall’s message. On fan forums and social media, alumni and supporters expressed appreciation for the reminder of BYU’s proud traditions.

• One fan tweeted:
  “Bronco may coach elsewhere, but his heart is always in Provo. Love seeing him support Sitake and the boys!”
• Another commented:
  “This is why BYU is different. It’s not just about wins, it’s about family, mentorship, and lifting each other up.”

Even Utah State fans, while mindful of their rivalry with BYU, praised Mendenhall for his ability to balance loyalty to his current program with respect for his past.

Broader College Football Perspective

College football analysts see the exchange as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the sport. Former coaches often serve as informal mentors to their successors, but rarely do such gestures make headlines.

ESPN commentator Kirk Herbstreit noted:

“Bronco Mendenhall reaching out to Kalani Sitake speaks volumes about the brotherhood of coaches. It’s a fraternity where advice and encouragement can transcend competition.”

For BYU, this moment highlights the program’s identity as both competitive and community-focused—a balance not every football school achieves.

Looking Ahead: BYU in the Big 12

The timing of Mendenhall’s message could not be more critical. As BYU continues to adjust to life in the Big 12, Sitake faces challenges ranging from depth and recruiting to facilities and NIL opportunities.

Yet with the support of alumni, mentors like Mendenhall, and a passionate fan base, the Cougars are positioned to build a sustainable future in one of college football’s toughest leagues.

Mendenhall’s parting words—“Stay true to what makes BYU special”—serve as both encouragement and challenge for the road ahead.

Conclusion

This breaking news moment goes beyond a simple message between two coaches—it represents a bridge between BYU’s past and its future. Bronco Mendenhall’s outreach reminds Kalani Sitake, his players, and Cougar Nation that while conferences, opponents, and challenges may change, the heart of BYU football remains the same.

In an age when college football is often defined by high-stakes contracts, transfers, and NIL deals, this exchange serves as a refreshing reminder of mentorship, values, and tradition.

As the Cougars prepare for their next chapter in the Big 12, they do so with wisdom from their past and hope for their future—guided, in part, by the enduring influence of one of their most successful head coaches.