Key Highlights
- BYU needs standout freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier to lead them in the Big 12 Championship Game against Texas Tech.
- Bachmeier has thrown for 2,593 yards and rushed for 529 yards with 25 total touchdowns this season.
- Texas Tech’s defense is one of the best in college football, led by top All-America candidates David Bailey, Lee Hunter, and Jacob Rodriguez.
- BYU’s wide receivers Parker Kingston and Chase Roberts are capable of creating big plays that could open up running lanes for star running back LJ Martin.
The Crucial Role of Bear Bachmeier in BYU’s Big 12 Championship Game
In the wake of a 29-7 loss to Texas Tech, wide receiver Chase Roberts boldly predicted that BYU would see the Red Raiders again. On Saturday, they get their second chance in the Big 12 Championship Game.
BYU’s Path Forward: Relying on Bear Bachmeier
The College Football Playoff era has seen every power conference team with an 11-1 record rank among the top 10, except for No. 11 BYU. This season, BYU faces a daunting challenge against the fourth-ranked Texas Tech squad in their bid to secure a playoff spot.
BYU’s offensive success hinges on the talents of standout freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Murrieta, California, native Bachmeier has become one of the breakout stars of 2025 after joining BYU over the summer.
His impact was immediate as he took over for Jake Retzlaff and has been electric.
Bachmeier’s statistics are impressive: he has thrown for 2,593 yards, rushed for 529 yards, and recorded 25 total touchdowns. His 79.6 QBR ranks him at 12th, a spot above Alabama QB Ty Simpson. BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick implemented a development plan that initially leaned on short and intermediate passing, with only 12% of Bachmeier’s targets coming from more than 20 yards downfield.
Texas Tech’s Defensive Strengths: A Hurdle for BYU
Despite the daunting task ahead, BYU has a chance to exploit weaknesses in Texas Tech’s defense. The Red Raiders are known for their formidable front seven, featuring top All-America candidates David Bailey, Lee Hunter, and Jacob Rodriguez. However, cracks can appear when targeting downfield passes.
Their lone loss came against Arizona State star Sam Leavitt, who managed to complete 49, 45, and 33-yard passes for points.
Bachmeier is still a young player, developing the NFL-level playmaking that makes Leavitt a star. However, even limited downfield opportunities could open up running lanes for BYU’s star running back LJ Martin, who was dealing with injuries in their first matchup.
BYU’s wide receivers Parker Kingston and Chase Roberts are big-play machines, averaging over 13.5 yards per reception. This could force Texas Tech to play a second level of coverage, potentially opening up running lanes for Martin. The Cougars’ defense also held Texas Tech to 3.5 yards per carry in their first meeting.
The Rematch: A Shot at the College Football Playoff
Bachmeier’s performance will be crucial as BYU looks to upset Texas Tech. His ability to make plays under pressure and his potential for big moments could provide a significant advantage. While mistakes are inevitable, BYU cannot afford to worry about downsides in this win-or-go-home scenario.
BYU has no choice but to capitalize on the opportunities presented by Texas Tech’s defensive weaknesses. With Bachmeier at the helm, they have a chance to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff and prove their worth against the nation’s top teams.
Stay tuned for updates as BYU prepares to face Texas Tech in the Big 12 Championship Game on Saturday.