BYU QB Jake Retzlaff Faces Suspension: What the Sexual Assault Lawsuit Means for His Future

Amid serious allegations of sexual assault, BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff may face significant consequences for breaching the university’s honor code. Reports suggest he could receive a seven-game suspension and is likely to leave the team.

The Salt Lake Tribune first broke the story, but BYU has not commented on the situation beyond acknowledging they take allegations seriously. Retzlaff is accused of attacking a woman, referred to as Jane Doe A.G., during a 2023 incident. She claims he raped, strangled, and bit her. While Retzlaff insists the encounter was consensual, even consensual encounters that violate school policies can result in disciplinary action.

BYU’s honor code mandates that students lead a “chaste and virtuous life.” This includes abstaining from sexual relations outside of marriage. It’s a code that reflects the university’s affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, grounding its policies in specific moral guidelines.

Last season, Retzlaff had an impressive record, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards with 20 touchdowns. BYU ended the season ranked 13th in the Associated Press poll with an 11-2 record.

In light of this situation, BYU is under pressure to maintain transparency. The university stated, “The university takes any allegation very seriously, following all processes and guidelines mandated by Title IX.” However, they also noted privacy laws prevent them from disclosing further details.

If Retzlaff departs, competition for the starting quarterback position will heat up among other players. McCae Hillstead, who transferred from Utah State, passed for over 1,000 yards last season. Freshman Bear Bachmeier, previously at Stanford, and junior Treyson Bourguet from Western Michigan will also vie for the spot.

This incident highlights a broader conversation about handling allegations in college athletics. Recent studies show that many universities are now facing increased scrutiny over how they manage such cases. A 2022 survey found that 68% of students feel more needs to be done to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.

As these events unfold, they will impact not only the players involved but also the reputation and future policies of BYU’s athletic program.



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BYU Cougars, College Football