The BYU Cougars are headed into the 2025 season without the quarterback they had originally planned to build around. Jake Retzlaff, who took over the offense in 2024 and was expected to lead the Cougars in their second full Big 12 campaign, announced his intention to transfer just months before kickoff. The situation left BYU in an unexpected position, but wide receiver Chase Roberts is confident the locker room isn’t shaken. “Yeah, I’ve always been confident in McCae [Hillstead], Treyson [Bourguet], and Bear [Bachmeier],” Roberts said. “Their presence, the calmness they have… they’re workhorses.”
With Retzlaff absent from spring practice and preseason prep, the trio of McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier have stepped into the spotlight. According to Roberts, it’s not just about talent with these guys. It’s about timing and work ethic. “They wanna get out and throw, stay after, and just get that timing down, everything. So, that’s what I love about all of them. They’re always gonna step up in a situation. You know, when the season comes around, they’re gonna be ready to go,” he continued. The Cougars now find themselves in a full-scale QB competition, but there’s a strong belief internally that the program has the depth to handle the transition.
Head coach Kalani Sitake also addressed the situation, expressing support while shifting focus to the future. “We love Jake and appreciate everything he’s done for us, but I’ll let him make statements about his situation,” Sitake told ESPN’s Pete Thamel. “The program is fine. No matter the situation… It’s not about one coach. It’s not about one player either. We feel good about our program.” With August 5 looming as the key deadline for Retzlaff’s transfer eligibility, all eyes are now on the quarterback room in Provo.
Chase Roberts’ confidence level for McCae Hillstead, Bear Bachmeier, and Treyson Bourguet now that Jake Retzlaff will reportedly transfer away from BYU: pic.twitter.com/4Juj86PfXY
— Sam Foster (@Samfos1er) July 8, 2025
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