Jake Retzlaff facing significant punishment from BYU

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s days at the school might be numbered as he faces a major suspension for violating the school’s Honor Code.

Retzlaff expects to face a suspension of at least seven games for violating the Honor Code, according to Kevin Reynolds of The Salt Lake Tribune. As a result, the quarterback is likely to leave the school.

Retzlaff is the subject of a civil lawsuit accusing him of rape, an allegation the quarterback has denied. In a legal response, Retzlaff’s attorney said he engaged in consensual sex with the reported victim. Even that is a problem for Retzlaff, as BYU, which is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, maintains a strict Honor Code that students are expected to abide by. The code prohibits students from engaging in premarital sex, which is why BYU still has the authority to punish Retzlaff even if the assault allegations are not true.

A seven-game suspension would cover over half the college football season. That punishment would not necessarily carry over to a new school if he decided to transfer, though other programs would likely still have concerns about his legal situation.

Retzlaff had a breakout season for BYU in 2024. He threw for 2,947 yards with 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, and led the Cougars to an 11-2 record and a win in the Alamo Bowl.