ESPN: ECU won’t face BYU QB, who plans to transfer after facing suspension

by | Jun 30, 2025

When East Carolina hosts BYU on Sept. 20, it likely won’t have to worry about quarterback Jake Retzlaff.

ESPN is reporting Retzlaff will transfer from BYU after he admitted to having premarital sex, a violation of the school’s honor code. He is facing suspension after the incident surfaced during his response to a civil lawsuit alleging he raped a woman in 2023.

ESPN also reports Retzlaff was facing a seven-game suspension. He met with school officials last Friday and informed them of his plans to leave.

Retzlaff had been working out with the team, but the Cougars had been working with its three backup quarterbacks — McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet and Bear Bachmeier — due to Retzlaff’s situation.

He graduated from BYU but had one year of eligibility remaining. He passed for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns with 12 interceptions last season as the Cougars finished 11-2 with him as the starter.

Click here to read more.

Photo credit: Jake Retzlaff (BYU photo)

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