Bear Bachmeier took the Big 12 by storm last season. But it was no accident. The path to becoming the first true freshman in school history to start a season opener was forged in the quiet, often grueling hours long before he ever donned the Cougar blue.
QB Coach Johnathan Reyes on Bear Bachmeier’s Growth and Development
According to his QB coach Johnathan Reyes, who recently shared insights on ESPN The Fan, the secret to Bear’s historic 2025 campaign wasn’t just natural talent. It was an almost obsessive level of self-discipline.
“What makes Bear special is the work ethic. We talked about where he lived and the sacrifice it took to train with me. If you give him something, he masters it,” Reyes said.
This wasn’t just standard practice-field dedication. Reyes recounted how, as far back as eighth grade, Bear would send him video clips from his backyard at dawn, meticulously drilling his footwork and sequence. That habit hasn’t faded with success.
“He still does that today. He’ll be on vacation sending me videos of his pat-and-go drills, getting his sequence down and working through footwork,” Reyes continued.
Reyes also noted that Bear’s ability to self-correct is what allowed him to master Aaron Roderick’s complex offense in record time.
“His attention to detail is elite. And then the other thing is just his instincts and his ability to play ball. He’s true to himself, and that’s what makes him super special.”
While Bear’s individual discipline is the engine, the fuel comes from a household where “losing” isn’t an option. The dynamic between Bear and his brother, star wide receiver Tiger Bachmeier, is central to their success at BYU. The two transferred together from Stanford in 2025, bringing a pre-built chemistry that electrified the Cougars’ passing game.
“The competitive nature in that household is real,” Reyes said. “I’ve seen it in the littlest things, like Uno or sitting at a restaurant eating dinner. They’re always competing.”
That sibling rivalry translated into a lethal on-field connection. In 2025, Bear threw for 3,033 yards and 15 touchdowns, while adding 11 rushing scores. While Tiger provided a familiar presence on the roster, Bear relied on playmakers like Chase Roberts and Parker Kingston to secure Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors and a Pop-Tarts Bowl MVP trophy.
As we move into the 2026 season, the expectations in Provo have shifted. Now with a full collegiate offseason under his belt, Bear is widely projected as a top three returning quarterback in the Big 12. Currently, PFSN’s CFB Playoff Meter gives Kalani Sitake’s Cougars a 29.7% chance to make the playoffs.
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