The family reasons for Bear Bachmeier wearing number 47 and being named Bear

Billy Heyen

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The family reasons for Bear Bachmeier wearing number 47 and being named Bear image

BYU needs true freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier at his best on Saturday in the Big 12 title game against Texas Tech.

The first time these teams met this season, the Red Raiders rolled past the Cougars.

For it to be different this time, Bachmeier will have to step up.

And whenever Bear plays, fans have questions.

Why does Bear Bachmeier wear jersey number 47?

Bear started wearing the No. 47 in youth football. He was a running back and linebacker, and his dad helped him pick that number.

“I used to play running back when I was younger, when I started playing football," Bear told reporters. "When I made the transition to quarterback, I just kept the number. I continued to play middle linebacker up until eighth grade. I like the number. It kind of brings you back to your primitive nature, I guess, when you’re playing.”

Bachmeier explained to The Athletic that the number makes him play more physical. It reminds him of the digit that a punishing runner or a fierce tackler would wear, and so while it's on his chest, even at QB, that's how he plays.

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Why is Bear Bachmeier named Bear?

Bear Bachmeier's name stems from the fact that his brother's nickname is Tiger.

“Tiger’s real name is James," Bear explained over the summer. "Tiger is the fourth. James Bachmeir I is my dad’s grandpa and he was a fighter pilot, he smoked those unfiltered Camels. When my dad was growing up, James I would always tell my dad, ‘Get over here Tiger,’ and my dad always thought that was cool so he named James IV Tiger and then he said 'The best one’s gotta be named Bear."

The difference with Bear is that his actual name is Bear. It's a nickname turned full name.

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Editorial Team