BYU’s Quarterback Choice Signals Bold New Era

It’s official. BYU will make history in its 2025 season opener.

Sources told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that Bear Bachmeier has been named the Cougars’ starting quarterback, making him the first true freshman in school history to start an opener.

Bachmeier, who will wear No. 47, will debut against Portland State on August 30.

Bachmeier’s path to the starting role is a bit unusual, to say the least. While listed as a true freshman, he technically arrives in Provo as a transfer after spending the spring semester at Stanford, which just happens to be BYU’s Week 2 opponent. He joined BYU in May and quickly rose through the depth chart to claim the job.

The Cougars are coming off an 11–2 season capped by a dominant Alamo Bowl win over Colorado. With several returning starters and a defense that showed major improvement last year, BYU enters the fall with legitimate Big 12 title expectations. The biggest question mark was who would take over under center, and now that answer has been delivered.

Bachmeier brings pedigree and confidence to the role. He comes from a football family, with brothers Hank and Tiger both playing at the collegiate level. Tiger Bachmeier, his older brother, actually has an opportunity to catch passes in Provo from his little brother as the wideout expects to find himself heavily in the rotation.

For head coach Kalani Sitake, the decision sets the tone for the season. Naming a true freshman to lead an 11-win team is bold, but it also reflects belief in Bachmeier’s poise and maturity. His debut against Portland State will be closely watched, but the real measuring stick will come a week later when he faces his old team in Stanford.