(BCSNN) — BYU head coach Kalani Sitake has named true freshman Bear Bachmeier the starting quarterback for the Cougars’ season opener against Portland State on Aug. 30, marking the first time in program history a true freshman will start a season opener under center. The decision was confirmed Tuesday following a competitive fall camp battle.

Bachmeier, a 6-foot-2 dual-threat quarterback from Murrieta Valley High School in California, transferred to BYU in May after a brief stint at Stanford. He joined the Cougars alongside his brother, wide receiver Tiger Bachmeier, and quickly rose through the depth chart, beating out Utah State transfer McCae Hillstead and Western Michigan transfer Treyson Bourguet. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick praised Bachmeier’s poise, accuracy, and grasp of the playbook despite his limited time on campus.

“He’s earned it,” Sitake said. “Bear came in with a lot to learn, but he’s shown maturity beyond his years. He’s a competitor, and he’s ready to lead this team.” Bachmeier will wear No. 47, a nod to his early days playing running back and linebacker, and has already drawn comparisons to former BYU standout Zach Wilson for his quick release and mobility.

Bachmeier’s decorated high school career included over 6,800 passing yards and 59 touchdowns, along with nearly 1,000 rushing yards. He was rated a four-star recruit and held offers from Georgia, Notre Dame, and Texas A&M before initially committing to Stanford. His rapid rise at BYU has energized the fan base and added intrigue to a program known for producing elite quarterbacks.

The Cougars enter the 2025 season coming off an 11–2 campaign and an Alamo Bowl win over Colorado, but expectations have tempered following the offseason departure of veteran starter Jake Retzlaff. BYU was left just outside the AP Top 25 in the preseason poll, though it ranked No. 23 in the Coaches Poll. With a strong defense and returning playmakers like LJ Martin and Chase Roberts, the Cougars are expected to contend in the Big 12 if Bachmeier can settle in quickly.

BYU will host Portland State at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Aug. 30 at 6 p.m. MDT. The matchup offers Bachmeier a chance to acclimate before a challenging September slate that includes games against Stanford, Iowa State, and Texas Tech. Sitake said the team is rallying around its new quarterback: “He’s got the locker room. Now it’s time to go prove it on the field.”