BREAKING NEWS: BYU Cougars Fans Eagerly Welcome Back Former Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall Amid Sitake’s Departure
Provo, UT – April 11, 2025 — In a move that has sent shockwaves through Cougar Nation, Brigham Young University has officially announced the return of Bronco Mendenhall as the new head coach of the BYU Cougars football program. The decision comes in the wake of a tumultuous season under Kalani Sitake, whose tenure ended after a series of controversial decisions and disappointing performances.
Mendenhall, who previously coached BYU from 2005 to 2015, is widely credited with laying the foundation for the team’s modern identity and culture. He returns to Provo after stepping down from his position at the University of Virginia in 2021 and taking a brief hiatus from coaching. His reappointment has ignited excitement among fans, alumni, and former players alike.
“Bronco is back where he belongs,” said longtime BYU fan Jacob Harris. “He understands what this program is about—discipline, grit, and honor. We need that again.”
The decision to part ways with Sitake was reportedly made after an internal review of the 2024 season, which saw the Cougars finish with a disappointing 4–8 record. Several late-game collapses, questionable play-calling, and struggles in recruiting contributed to growing unrest within the program and among fans. Sources close to the athletic department say that key boosters and donors expressed concern about the team’s direction and began lobbying for change.
Sitake, who took over in 2016 and led BYU to a memorable 11–1 season in 2020, has had an up-and-down tenure. Despite his popularity and strong ties to the university, the last two seasons were marked by inconsistency and underachievement.
Athletic Director Tom Holmoe acknowledged the difficulty of the transition during Friday’s press conference. “Coach Sitake has given so much to this program, and we’re grateful for his leadership. But it’s time for a new chapter—one we believe Coach Mendenhall is uniquely prepared to lead.”
Mendenhall, 58, expressed humility and excitement upon returning. “This is home for me,” he said. “BYU is more than a football program—it’s a mission. I’m honored to be entrusted once again with guiding these young men on and off the field.”
Sources suggest Mendenhall will begin assembling his staff immediately, with some familiar faces from his previous tenure expected to return. With spring practices already underway, fans are optimistic that the Cougars can quickly regain their footing under a proven leader.
As the news spreads, one thing is clear: Cougar Nation is buzzing with hope for a bold new era under an old, familiar face.