Kalani Sitake Eats a Pop-Tart, BYU Eats a Win: Cougars Rally Past Georgia Tech in Pop-Tarts Bowl
Sometimes college football gives us moments that are bigger than the game itself - and sometimes, those moments involve a head coach devouring a Pop-Tart like a man possessed. After BYU’s gritty 25-21 comeback win over Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, Kalani Sitake didn’t just celebrate - he consumed the celebration, taking a massive bite out of the game’s edible mascot in a moment that instantly went viral.
Yes, Sitake - the usually reserved, composed leader of the Cougars - let his fun side out on full display. And after the way his team battled back in the fourth quarter, he earned every crumb of that frosted pastry.
BYU’s Fourth-Quarter Grit
This wasn’t just a feel-good moment. BYU’s win over Georgia Tech was a showcase of resilience, leadership, and timely execution - the kind of performance that defines a 12-win season.
Down 21-10 heading into the fourth quarter, the Cougars were staring at nearly two full quarters without a point. The offense had stalled, and Georgia Tech had momentum. But then came the turning point: an 11-play, 80-yard drive that flipped the script.
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier orchestrated the drive with poise, distributing the ball across the field and keeping the defense off balance. Running back Enoch Nawahine punched it in from two yards out, and Bachmeier followed it up by converting the two-point try, cutting the deficit to 21-18.
From there, the defense took over.
Defense Delivers in the Clutch
BYU’s defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing back-to-back three-and-outs to give the offense another shot. And the Cougars didn’t waste it.
Their game-winning drive - nine plays, 66 yards - was a statement. Methodical, balanced, and confident. Javesa Damuni capped it off with a four-yard touchdown run that put BYU ahead for the first time since the second quarter.
But even with the lead, the drama wasn’t over.
Georgia Tech mounted one final push, driving deep into BYU territory with a shot to tie or win. But the Cougars’ defense had one more big play in them. With the Yellow Jackets threatening in the red zone, defensive back Evan Johnson came up with the game-sealing interception in the end zone, picking off Haynes King and slamming the door shut on Georgia Tech’s hopes.
A Season to Remember
With the win, BYU finishes the season at 12-2 - a mark that reflects the grit and growth of a team that found ways to win in all kinds of situations. Saturday’s bowl game was no different. It was a comeback fueled by leadership, execution, and belief - the kind of traits that Sitake has instilled in this program.
And while the on-field performance was impressive, it was Sitake’s postgame Pop-Tart moment that gave fans a glimpse of the joy behind the grind. For a coach known more for his calm demeanor than his viral antics, it was a rare - and hilarious - look at the personality that players love and respect.
So yes, BYU ate up Georgia Tech’s lead - and then their head coach ate the Pop-Tart trophy. A fitting end to a season full of flavor.