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 the quarterback engaged in consensual sex with the accuser. 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 pre-marital 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.
