Oregon State head coach Gary Andersen committed a Pac-12-on-Pac-12 crime by stealing the Utah Utes’ defensive coordinator away from the program.
Kalani Sitake spent the last 10 seasons as a member of Utah’s coaching staff. He rose from being the program’s linebackers coach to defensive coordinator. Sitake eventually earned an assistant head coach title in 2012.
After an extended stay in Salt Lake City, Andersen was able to pry the talented play-caller to Corvallis, Oregon, to become a key component to his new staff.
Just got official word...Utah DC Kalani Sitake is leaving for Oregon State. Currently contacting his Ute players to let them know.
— Kevin Graham (@KGrahamSports) December 23, 2014
Utah’s defense finished in the middle of the Pac-12 pack in most of the major statistical categories this season, but Sitake’s approach is very aggressive. Utah led the conference with 52 sacks.
Sitake’s experience stopping Pac-12 offense was also a vital component for Andersen.
Andersen wanted a DC at OSU that is familiar with defending the high tempo Pac-12 offenses. Felt Aranda wasn't equipped. Sitake is
— Kevin Graham (@KGrahamSports) December 23, 2014
Dave Aranda previously served as Andersen’s defensive coordinator at both Utah State and Wisconsin. The new Beavers head coach obviously wanted to go in another direction, though.
Plus, Sitake is an important addition for Oregon State recruiting. During his time at Utah, the Tongan native recruited the Los Angeles area, Utah and Florida.
Utah’s defensive line coach, Ilaisa Tuiaki, will join Sitake, according to SI.com’s Thayer Evans.
UPDATE [8:45 p.m. ET]: Oregon State’s athletic department officially announced six different additions to Gary Andersen‘s staff.
Kalani Sitake (defensive coordinator/assistant head coach), Chad Kauha’aha’a, Derrick Odum, Ilaisa Tuiaki, T.J. Woods and Evan Simon (strength and conditioning coach) will comprise the bulk of the team’s support staff.
“One of my top priorities has been to put together a staff that helps student-athletes succeed academically, socially and athletically,” Andersen said in a statement from the school. “These coaches all put the student-athlete first and are all proven professionals in their respective areas, excelling at the highest level. They have demonstrated the ability to recruit nationally and that experience ensures that we will be able to bring in student-athletes that fit Oregon State University, our community and our program.”
