In the fast-paced, competitive world of college football, compliments between coaches are rare and usually guarded. But in 2024, Deion Sanders broke that mold with a heartfelt and memorable quote that continues to make waves in Big 12 circles.
Deion Sanders’ 2024 Comments About Kalani Sitake Add to His BYU Buzz
The statement came after BYU’s dominant 36-14 win over Colorado in the 2024 Valero Alamo Bowl. The Cougars, led by head coach Kalani Sitake, overpowered Sanders’ Buffaloes in nearly every phase of the game.
It was not only the most-watched non-CFP bowl game of the season with over 8 million viewers on ABC, but also the final college appearance for stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, making the loss all the more emotional.
“If I’m going to get my butt kicked, I’d rather get my butt kicked by that coach (Kalani). I love him to life. He’s a good man.”
-Deion Sanders on Kalani Sitake and BYU.#ValeroAlamoBowl #BYUvsCU #CoachPrime pic.twitter.com/gGhwjVD8Cx— Brigham’s Brigade (@BrighamsBrigade) December 29, 2024
Still, Sanders didn’t focus on disappointment. Instead, he used the moment to praise Sitake, who had just wrapped up an 11-2 season, finishing in a four-way tie atop the Big 12 in only BYU’s second year in the conference.
Kalani Sitake is no stranger to Cougar fans. As the first former player under LaVell Edwards to lead BYU, he’s built a program grounded in legacy and elevated by results. Now entering his 10th season in 2025, Sitake boasts a 72-43 record (.626) and has led the Cougars to double-digit wins in three of the past five years, including their breakout Big 12 campaign in 2024.
In that same five-year span, Sitake’s 45-18 record ranks him No. 8 among all FBS coaches in winning percentage. His leadership was recognized nationally as he was named the 2024 Region 4 Coach of the Year by the American Football Coaches Association and was a finalist for AFCA National Coach of the Year. He also appeared on the George Munger, Bear Bryant, and Dodd Trophy watch lists.
The bond between Sanders and Sitake represents more than just sportsmanship; it’s a signal of rising respect for BYU in the Big 12. Sanders’ public support amplified the national buzz around Sitake’s leadership, culture, and consistent performance.
For BYU fans, it was sweet vindication. For Sanders, it was a rare public nod to a peer he deeply respects. And for college football as a whole, it was a reminder that integrity, success, and humility can coexist at the highest levels of the sport.
As the 2025 season approaches, Sitake’s Cougars are no longer the Big 12 newcomers. They’re contenders. And thanks to Sanders’ emotional words, they’re also one of the most respected teams in the country.
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