BYU football coach on when your ‘game plan’ doesn’t go as planned
BYU football coach on when your ‘game plan’ doesn't go as planned
BYU football coach on when your ‘game plan’ doesn’t go as planned
BYU Football Coach Kalani Sitake on When Your ‘Game Plan’ Doesn’t Go as Planned
By Ryan Jensen, Church News
March 14, 2025 | 1:57 PM MDT
In an address that resonated as much with life off the gridiron as on it, BYU’s head football coach Kalani Sitake delivered a stirring devotional message on “when your game plan doesn’t go as planned.” This was the first time in nearly five decades that a sitting head coach at Brigham Young University has taken the pulpit in a devotional setting—a role once held by the legendary LaVell Edwards in 1976. Sitake’s remarks, delivered to a captivated audience of students, athletes, and alumni, offered a candid exploration of setbacks, personal accountability, and the importance of resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.
A Message Rooted in Faith and Football
Coach Sitake’s address, though brief, struck a deep chord with many in attendance. With a calm yet resolute tone, he reflected on the realities of football—a game defined by split-second decisions, constant adjustments, and the unyielding pressure of competition. “In football, as in life, you plan meticulously, you prepare rigorously, and yet, sometimes, despite your best efforts, the play doesn’t go your way,” he explained. “It’s in those moments that our character is truly tested.”
Drawing parallels between the gridiron and the challenges of everyday life, Sitake urged his listeners to view setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for growth. “When your game plan doesn’t work, you have two choices: you can let the disappointment consume you, or you can adapt, learn, and come back stronger,” he said. His words encapsulated a philosophy that has guided the Cougars through seasons of triumph and trial alike.
The Philosophy of Adaptation
At its core, Coach Sitake’s message was one of adaptation. He recounted personal anecdotes from his coaching career, where even the most meticulously drawn-up strategies sometimes fell apart in the chaos of game day. “There have been games where our scouting reports and our rehearsed plays didn’t match the reality on the field,” he admitted. “What defines us is how quickly we can pivot—how fast we can recognize the gap between our plan and the reality, and then, how determined we are to fill it.”
He elaborated on the importance of trust—trust in one’s teammates, trust in the coaching staff, and most importantly, trust in God’s plan. Sitake emphasized that a coach’s responsibility extends beyond drawing up plays; it is about inspiring the players to embrace setbacks as part of the journey. “If you’re prepared to adjust your tactics in the middle of a game, you’re also preparing yourself for life’s unpredictable moments,” he noted. “There’s no shame in having your plan disrupted—it’s how you respond that truly counts.”
A Historic Moment in BYU Devotionals
For many, the significance of Coach Sitake’s appearance on the devotional stage was amplified by the historical context. LaVell Edwards, whose tenure is often credited with revolutionizing BYU football, set a high bar when he once again mixed faith with football. Sitake’s decision to follow in those footsteps was both a nod to the past and a statement about the future. “I’m humbled to be standing here,” he remarked, “knowing that I am following in the footsteps of a man whose legacy not only brought victories on the field but also built the character of generations of young men.”
This connection to the past resonated with alumni and current players alike. Many recalled how Edwards’ words had inspired them during challenging seasons, both on the field and in life. By invoking that legacy, Sitake was not merely recounting a personal philosophy—he was reviving a tradition that had long been intertwined with BYU’s identity.
Overcoming Setbacks: More Than Just Football
Sitake’s remarks were not limited to the mechanics of football; they extended into life lessons applicable to academics, personal relationships, and spiritual growth. “Whether you’re preparing for a big test, a job interview, or a championship game, there will be times when your plan goes awry,” he explained. “What matters is that you don’t let that derail your journey. Instead, use it as a learning experience.”
He urged his audience to reflect on their own “game plans” and to consider what they would do if their expectations were not met. For many students, his message was both a comfort and a challenge. “I want each of you to leave here today knowing that failure isn’t the end—it’s a detour,” he stated. “Every setback is a setup for a comeback if you’re willing to adapt and work even harder.”
Accountability Without Blame
One of the more striking aspects of Sitake’s message was his insistence on accountability without the bitterness of blame. In an era when criticism can be swift and unforgiving, especially in the high-stakes world of college football, Sitake’s call for personal responsibility was refreshingly balanced. “I have seen teams where, when things go wrong, the blame is quickly passed around,” he observed. “But the best teams know that true leadership means owning your mistakes and learning from them.”
He recalled instances where key plays did not unfold as planned—not because of a lack of effort, but due to factors beyond control. “There will always be the unexpected—a weather delay, an injury, a miscommunication. What matters is that you don’t get stuck in a cycle of blame,” he advised. “Instead, focus on what you can control: your preparation, your attitude, and your willingness to evolve.”
Impact on the BYU Community
The reverberations of Coach Sitake’s message were felt immediately among the BYU community. Players spoke of the newfound sense of resolve that his words instilled. “Coach Sitake reminded us that every game is a lesson,” said one senior linebacker, who asked to remain anonymous. “We’re not defined by one bad play or even one bad game—we’re defined by how we get back up and adjust.”
The message also resonated with fans and alumni, many of whom have weathered seasons of highs and lows alongside the Cougars. “It’s refreshing to see a coach who not only focuses on the X’s and O’s but also on building character,” commented a longtime BYU supporter. “In today’s sports world, it’s easy to get caught up in the results. But Kalani’s message reminds us that the process, the growth, and the learning are what truly matter.”
A Blueprint for Future Success
As BYU looks toward the future, the lessons from this devotional are expected to have a lasting impact on the program. Coach Sitake’s philosophy of embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth is already being woven into the fabric of the team’s training sessions. “We’re always looking for ways to improve,” he said. “Our playbook is never set in stone—if something isn’t working, we change it. And that mindset applies not just on the field, but in every aspect of our lives.”
Analysts have noted that this adaptive approach could be the key to BYU’s long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape. With the Cougars transitioning in a new conference and facing opponents with deep talent pools, the ability to pivot and adjust quickly could provide a significant edge. “Kalani’s emphasis on flexibility and accountability is exactly what you need in today’s game,” commented a sports analyst familiar with BYU’s recent performance. “It’s not just about having a game plan—it’s about being able to rewrite it on the fly when circumstances change.”
Balancing Tradition with Modern Demands
The melding of tradition and modernity in Coach Sitake’s message is particularly noteworthy. While he reverently acknowledged the legacy of LaVell Edwards, Sitake also highlighted the need to adapt traditional principles to meet today’s challenges. “The fundamentals remain the same,” he stated. “Discipline, preparation, and hard work are timeless. But the game itself evolves, and so must we.”
This dual focus on honoring the past while embracing innovation struck a chord with many. Younger players, in particular, appreciated the blend of historical wisdom with a forward-looking vision. “It’s inspiring to hear our coach talk about learning from mistakes without being stuck in them,” said one wide receiver. “It shows that while we respect where we came from, we’re not afraid to chart our own path.”
Lessons for Life Beyond the Field
Beyond the immediate context of football, Coach Sitake’s message carries universal lessons for anyone facing adversity. His analogy of the game plan serves as a metaphor for life’s unpredictable journey. “Every day presents a new set of challenges,” he explained. “You may plan for success, but sometimes things don’t unfold as expected. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you have an opportunity to grow.”
This broader perspective has resonated with individuals from all walks of life, from students grappling with academic pressures to professionals navigating career setbacks. “What I love about Coach Sitake’s message is that it’s not just about winning games,” remarked a BYU alumnus. “It’s about resilience, adaptability, and the courage to keep moving forward no matter what obstacles arise.”
The Role of Leadership and Mentorship
Central to the devotional was the theme of leadership. Coach Sitake’s words underscored that effective leadership is not measured solely by victories, but by the ability to inspire and mentor others through adversity. “A leader isn’t defined by the flawless execution of a game plan—it’s defined by how you handle the unexpected,” he asserted. “Great leaders build teams that are resilient, that trust each other, and that understand that every setback is a stepping stone to greater success.”
For many of the young men on the BYU roster, this message is a call to not only improve their performance on the field but also to develop as individuals. “We learn more from our mistakes than our successes,” said one defensive lineman. “Coach Sitake’s emphasis on accountability and continuous improvement is something we can apply in every aspect of our lives.”
A Lasting Impact on BYU’s Culture
As the Cougars continue to navigate the ups and downs of college football, Coach Sitake’s message is likely to leave a lasting imprint on the program’s culture. His candid acknowledgment that not every game will go as planned, coupled with a steadfast commitment to learning and adapting, sets a tone that many hope will lead to sustained success. “We’re building something more than just a football team here,” Sitake remarked. “We’re building a community of resilient individuals who are prepared to face life’s challenges head-on.”
This holistic approach—one that integrates athletic performance with personal growth and spiritual strength—is seen as a cornerstone of BYU’s unique identity. In an era when the pressures of performance can sometimes overshadow the human element of sports, Coach Sitake’s words serve as a reminder that character and perseverance are just as important as any play drawn up on a chalkboard.
Looking Ahead
As the season unfolds, BYU fans and supporters will undoubtedly be watching not only the scoreboards but also the evolution of the team’s mindset. Coach Sitake’s message on the importance of adapting when things don’t go according to plan offers a blueprint for the future—one that emphasizes learning, accountability, and a relentless drive to improve.
For a program that has experienced both dazzling highs and challenging lows, the ability to pivot under pressure may be the defining factor in their journey to excellence. “There will be setbacks,” Sitake acknowledged, “but every setback is an opportunity. An opportunity to learn, to adjust, and ultimately, to succeed.”
Final Thoughts
In the end, Coach Kalani Sitake’s devotional address was much more than a commentary on football strategy. It was a call to embrace life’s uncertainties, to take responsibility for one’s actions, and to always be prepared to rewrite the playbook when circumstances change. His message—delivered with humility and passion—reminded everyone that while a game plan is essential, it is the response to unforeseen challenges that truly defines success.
As BYU continues its journey both on the field and off, Sitake’s words will likely serve as a guiding light for the next generation of Cougars. In a world where perfection is often expected and mistakes are harshly judged, his message is a refreshing reminder that true greatness comes from the courage to adapt, learn, and move forward—even when the game plan doesn’t go as planned.
For the players, the coaching staff, and the entire BYU community, this message offers hope and direction. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Cougars—a spirit that understands that every setback is merely the setup for a stronger comeback. And as the season progresses, the lessons learned from both victory and defeat will continue to shape the future of BYU football.
In the words of Coach Sitake, “When your game plan doesn’t go as planned, remember: it’s not the end of the story. It’s just a new beginning.” With that mindset, BYU is poised to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead, both on the field and in life.
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