Tulane has its quarterback. And it’s a name that few expected to win the job so quickly.
BYU transfer Jake Retzlaff, who joined the Green Wave in July, will start the season opener against Northwestern, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. Retzlaff steps into the role after an 11–2 campaign with the Cougars in 2024, where he threw for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns.
Retzlaff brings proven production. His arm talent stood out last season, and his ability to extend plays with 417 rushing yards and six scores gave BYU a dual-threat weapon.
He separated from a deep quarterback competition. Tulane entered camp with four new transfers, including Iowa’s Brendan Sullivan, who was limited by a lower-body injury. That left the door open for Retzlaff to quickly seize control.
Tulane needs a ready-made starter after losing star quarterback Darian Mensah. Head coach Jon Sumrall built a veteran roster expecting to contend, and Retzlaff’s experience provides stability.
Tulane finished 9–5 last season but faces a grueling September slate with South Alabama, Duke, and Ole Miss ahead. Retzlaff’s debut against Northwestern won’t just mark a new era, it’s a chance to prove the Green Wave made the right call.
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