Get ready for some serious college football action! Former BYU Cougars quarterback Jake Retzlaff is officially heading to the College Football Playoff! This exciting news comes after Retzlaff led the Tulane Green Wave to a decisive 34-21 victory over the North Texas Mean Green in the American Conference Championship game.
Currently ranked No. 20 in the College Football Playoff rankings, the Green Wave's impressive win guarantees them a spot as one of the five highest-ranked conference champions in the country, securing an automatic berth to the CFP. ESPN's Heather Dinich predicts Tulane will be the committee's fourth-highest ranked conference champion, earning the No. 11 seed and facing the No. 6 team on the road in the first round.
Retzlaff's Performance
In the championship game, Retzlaff showcased his versatility, completing 13 of 22 passes for 145 yards. While he didn't throw any touchdown passes, he made a significant impact on the ground, rushing for 49 yards on 15 carries and scoring two touchdowns. His performance helped secure the Green Wave's victory and their place in the College Football Playoff.
A Stellar Season
Retzlaff's season has been nothing short of impressive. He has completed 209 of 334 pass attempts for 2,717 yards with 14 touchdowns and only six interceptions. His rushing stats are equally remarkable, with 561 yards on 103 carries and 14 touchdowns. His leadership and skill have been instrumental in Tulane's success this season.
Coaching Change
Adding another layer to the story, Tulane's head coach, Jon Sumrall, was recently hired for the same position at Florida. This change adds an element of uncertainty and intrigue as Tulane prepares for the College Football Playoff. It remains to be seen how this coaching transition will affect the team's performance.
South African fans, keep an eye on Jake Retzlaff as he takes the field in the College Football Playoff! This is a story worth following as he represents the Cougars and Tulane on a national stage.