NEW ORLEANS โ A new chapter has begun for former BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff as he transitions to Tulane University. Known by endearing nicknames like โKosher Cannon,โ โShabbat Shotgun,โ and โBayou Jewโ in Tulaneโs large Jewish community, Retzlaff is moving forward from the circumstances that prompted his switch in schools. Previously, he was identified as โBYJewโ at BYU, a predominantly Mormon campus in Provo, Utah.
Retzlaff cherished his time at BYU, noting the universityโs profound impact on his personal growth and faith. He described his experience there as transformative, nurturing both his on-field skills and spiritual life, even as one of the relatively few Jewish students. During his tenure at BYU, he led the team to an impressive 11-2 record, culminating in a No. 13 spot in the final AP Top 25 Poll.
His departure from BYU came amid controversy, following a civil sexual assault lawsuit in which he was named. Retzlaff asserted the relationship in question was consensual, but BYUโs honor code, which prohibits premarital sex, reportedly led to an impending suspension, prompting his withdrawal. In his first public comments since arriving at Tulane, Retzlaff focused on his optimism for his future with Tulaneโs program, steering clear of discussing the details surrounding his exit from BYU.
Tulaneโs head coach, Jon Sumrall, indicated that the universityโs evaluation of Retzlaff was thorough before his acceptance into the program. With three other quarterbacks transferring into Tulane โ Kadin Semonza, Donovan Leary, and Brendan Sullivan โ Retzlaff knows he must earn the starting position Fairly and openly, he competes alongside them, with none guaranteed a starting role.
Reflecting on past interactions with Sumrall, who recruited him while coaching at Troy, Retzlaff expressed his admiration for Sumrall, recounting how he expressed interest in playing under him.
Although Tulane had no scholarships for Retzlaff, heโs undeterred as a walk-on. The prospect of sacrificing financial short-term gain is acceptable to him as he pursues long-term success in football. His commitment is evident as he tackles mastering a new offensive strategy and adapts to the humid climate of Louisiana, a stark contrast to the colder, drier environment of his previous home.
The contrast between the religious composition of Tulane and BYU is another adjustment Retzlaff embraces positively. The 40% Jewish student body at Tulane resonates with his faith, enriching his experience and aligning with his values.
In the social dynamics of Tulaneโs team, Retzlaff has found camaraderie, making efforts to connect with fellow players daily over meals. Tulaneโs upcoming season presents new challenges and opportunities for Retzlaff, especially as the team tries to replace key players like their former starter, Darian Mensah.
Coach Sumrall remains undecided about naming Retzlaff or any quarterback the starting role before Tulaneโs first game against Northwestern, hinting at a possibility of shared playing time.
For Retzlaff, this transition symbolizes a new phase of personal and professional growth, filled with optimism and ambition for what lies ahead. โThis is a new chapter in my life,โ Retzlaff remarked. โIโm excited to attack it and make the most of it.โ