BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff on CBS Sports' Top 150 Players in 2025

After an impressive 11-2 campaign, capped off by a dominant Alamo Bowl victory over Colorado, BYU has its sights set on contending for the Big 12 championship in 2025. Jake Retzlaff returns as the undisputed starting QB and looks to improve on a strong finish to the 2024 season. He earned national praise this week.

According to CBS Sports, Retzlaff was the only Cougar named to the Top 150 college football players list, landing at No. 99. It’s a nod to his growing profile and the respect he's earning for his consistent, clutch performances.

Retzlaff threw for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns while adding 417 rushing yards and six scores on the ground. A true dual-threat who showed poise in big moments, helping BYU close out close games en route to a 9-0 start.

However, head coach Kalani Sitake and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick know that for BYU to make the leap from contender to champion, Retzlaff must elevate his game even more. That means cutting down turnovers and limiting simple mistakes. While 11 interceptions doesn't seem like a huge factor, getting down to the single digits can mean the difference in a season. The Cougars’ best teams have leaned on elite quarterback play, and Retzlaff has the potential to lead his team. 

The 2025 schedule won’t offer much room for error, and BYU can’t afford to rely on pulling out close games. Especially, the College Football Playoff could come down to margin of victory. With Retzlaff now fully entrenched as the leader of the offense and the defense returning to form, the Cougars have a chance to be one of the toughest teams in the Big 12. 

If Retzlaff continues to mature and sharpen his skills, BYU could return to a major bowl game. They could be in the thick of the Big 12 title race come November.