BYU Quarterback Jake Retzlaff Withdraws, Opens Up Opportunities for Others
Jake Retzlaff Withdraws from BYU
On Friday, quarterback Jake Retzlaff announced that he is withdrawing from BYU, signaling the beginning of his transfer process from the school. This decision comes after a challenging season for the 6-foot-3 senior, who struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. Retzlaff, a highly-touted recruit out of high school, had hoped to make a mark at BYU but was unable to secure the starting position. This news comes as a blow to the Cougars, who will now have to look for a new starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Retzlaff's transfer also opens up opportunities for other quarterbacks on the team to step up and prove themselves on the field.
About the People Mentioned
Jake Retzlaff
Jake Retzlaff is an American college football quarterback who transferred to Tulane University from Brigham Young University (BYU) in the summer of 2025 and wears number 12 for the Tulane Green Wave. [1] He began his Division I career at BYU, where he earned recognition including Midseason Big 12 Quarterback of the Year honors from some outlets and All‑Big 12 mention during the 2024 season, and he produced a BYU career‑high 348 passing yards and three touchdowns in a season opener versus Southern Illinois. [2][1] Before joining BYU, Retzlaff was a highly productive junior‑college quarterback at Riverside City College and earlier at Golden West College, where he compiled prolific passing and rushing statistics, led Riverside to the California Community College State Championship game in 2022, and received multiple All‑California and Region honors. [1][2] At Riverside he threw for 4,596 yards and 44 touchdowns in 2022 and set school passing records, while at Golden West he helped lead an 11‑1 season and earned league and regional player‑of‑the‑year awards. [1][2] Retzlaff’s background includes prep football at Centennial High School in California; he did not have a senior high‑school season in 2020 because of the COVID‑19 pandemic. [1][2] Off the field, BYU roster information lists his major as Exercise Science and notes family and personal details such as parents and a brother who also played at Riverside City College. [2] In 2024–2025 Retzlaff drew media attention both for on‑field production in the Big 12 and for being a notable religious minority while starting at BYU; coverage highlighted his role as the program’s starting quarterback and his integration into the team’s culture. [4][2] As of his 2025 transfer, he is positioned to compete as Tulane’s quarterback and is current on Tulane and national college‑football rosters and highlight reels. [1][3]
About the Organizations Mentioned
BYU
Brigham Young University (BYU) is a prominent institution sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offering a unique blend of academic and spiritual growth. Founded nearly 150 years ago, BYU has evolved into one of the largest private universities in the U.S., with a diverse student body of over 35,000 from 105 countries[4]. ## History and Organization BYU's history is deeply intertwined with its religious roots, with the university being part of the Church Educational System (CES)[2]. The institution is organized under a board of trustees, with the church's president serving as chairman[2]. BYU operates through 11 colleges, offering 198 major programs, 113 minor programs, and numerous graduate degrees[4]. ## Key Achievements - **Academic Excellence**: BYU is renowned for its top-ranked programs, including the No. 2 accounting program in the U.S. Its J. Reuben Clark Law School and Marriott School of Business are among the top 30 schools in their respective fields[4]. - **International Engagement**: BYU offers over 200 international study abroad programs across 60 countries, making it one of the top study abroad programs in the nation[4]. - **Linguistic Diversity**: Students at BYU speak over 121 languages, reflecting the university's global reach[4]. ## Current Status Currently, BYU is focused on enhancing its student experience through initiatives like the Inspiring Learning Initiative and advancing faith-based teaching[3]. The university also hosts significant events, such as the BYU Women's Conference, which draws thousands of participants annually[5]. ## Notable Aspects - **BYUSA**: The BYU Student Service Association (BYUSA) plays a crucial role in connecting students with leadership opportunities and volunteer activities[1]. - **Spiritual and Intellectual Growth**: BYU aims to provide an education that is spiritually strengthening, intellectually enlarging, and character building[3]. - **Innovative Programs**: Programs like BYU
Cougars
The term "Cougars" can refer to different entities, but in the context of organizations, it might relate to either the Kane County Cougars, a minor league baseball team, or organizations focused on cougar conservation. Here's a summary focusing on both the baseball team and conservation efforts: ## Kane County Cougars The **Kane County Cougars** are a minor league baseball team based in Geneva, Illinois, about 35 miles from Chicago. Established after the Wausau Timbers relocated from Wisconsin in 1991, they initially played as an affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles before being associated with the Florida Marlins and later other teams. The Cougars have a rich history, including playoff appearances and a strong fan base. They are currently part of the Midwest League and play their home games at Northwestern Medicine Field (previously known as Elfstrom Stadium) with a seating capacity of approximately 10,923. ## Cougar Conservation Organizations Organizations like **The Cougar Fund** and **Cougar Conservancy** focus on the conservation of cougars, also known as mountain lions. The Cougar Fund, founded in 2001, aims to protect cougars through education and advocacy, ensuring their place in the Americas. The Cougar Conservancy, based in Los Angeles, works to reduce human-wildlife conflict and conserve cougar populations using science-based management. ## Key Achievements and Current Status - **Kane County Cougars**: The team has experienced fluctuating success over the years but remains a beloved local sports institution. - **Cougar Conservation**: Efforts like the **#SaveLACougars** campaign have been crucial in reconnecting wildlife corridors and protecting cougar populations, notably through the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing in Los Angeles. ## Notable Aspects - The Kane County Cougars provide a unique blend of sports entertainment and community engagement. - Cougar conservation organizations highlight the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles. Overall, while the term
