You can’t predict everything in college football. But sometimes, the offseason delivers a story that shakes the foundation a bit—and this one definitely qualifies.
BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff is expected to transfer, according to multiple reports, after facing a potential seven-game suspension due to a violation of the school’s honor code. The news, which stems from a civil lawsuit that includes serious allegations, not only alters BYU’s trajectory—it changes the entire dynamic of Colorado’s Week 5 matchup with the Cougars.
The Buffs host BYU on September 27 in what was already circled as one of the most pivotal games of the early season. Now? There’s a giant question mark hovering over the quarterback position in Provo.
And let’s be honest—this is a major development for Coach Prime and company.
What we know so far
According to The Salt Lake Tribune and ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Retzlaff—who led BYU to an 11-2 season and an Alamo Bowl win over Colorado—has informed coaches and teammates he’s likely leaving the program.
This follows a lawsuit filed in May accusing him of sexual assault in November 2023. While Retzlaff denied the allegations in his legal response, he did admit to engaging in premarital sex, which violates BYU’s well-known honor code.
That admission alone reportedly triggered a potential seven-game suspension, pushing Retzlaff to consider other options. No criminal charges have been filed, but the university has remained silent beyond citing Title IX protocol.
This isn’t the first time a high-profile BYU athlete has run afoul of the honor code. But the timing and stakes here make this a particularly impactful case—not just for BYU, but for the Big 12.
What it means for Colorado
For the Buffs, this could be a swing moment.
Retzlaff didn’t just beat Colorado last season—they carved us up. He completed 12 of 21 passes for 151 yards, but also the Cougars had a strong rushing game, led by L.J. Martin, who ran for 88 yards and 2 touchdowns.
However, his potential absence creates a vacuum. BYU’s backups—McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier—have limited experience, and none of them offer the dual-threat versatility Retzlaff brought to the field.
Make no mistake, BYU is still a well-coached, physical team. But quarterback play matters—especially in a road game at altitude.
If Retzlaff is gone, Colorado’s defense may get a completely different look. That gives defensive coordinator Robert Livingston extra tape to prep for, yes—but also a softer edge to attack.
And given how stacked the early portion of CU’s schedule is, every advantage counts.
Just a few weeks ago, Colorado’s matchup against BYU looked like one of the toughest early tests. Now? It still will be. But it’s no longer quite as daunting on paper.
That doesn’t mean overlook it. Coach Prime won’t let this team do that. But the path to 4–1 heading into October just got a little more realistic.
The Retzlaff situation is complicated. It involves serious allegations, honor code enforcement, legal proceedings, and a player with a major spotlight on him.
But for Colorado, the impact is clear: Week 5 just changed.
And if you’re looking for signs that 2025 might break differently for the Buffs? You might’ve just found one.
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