College Football 26 Predicts McCae Hillstead Will Win BYU QB Battle
Aug 4, 2025, 1:51 PM
Photo by Jaren Wilkey/BYU PHOTO
One of the biggest questions surrounding BYU football heading into the 2025 season is the quarterback battle.
EA College Football 26 updated their rosters and has McCae Hillstead as QB1 for the Cougars.
College Football 26 updated BYU’s quarterback unit for the season. pic.twitter.com/nXoLyho8Z2
— Mitch Harper (@Mitch_Harper) July 29, 2025
The game gave Hillstead a 77 overall rating, with true freshman Bear Bachmeier just behind at 76. Junior Treyson Bourguet trails both at 71.
Of the three, Hillstead has the most relevant college experience. Bachmeier is likely the best long-term prospect, which explains his 76 rating despite being a newcomer.
In 2023, Hillstead played in eight games for the Utah State Aggies. He completed 94 of 158 passing attempts for 1,062 yards and 11 touchdowns.
McCae Hillstead Breaks Down QB Battle At BYU Fall Camp
Hillstead joined the BYU football program last year and watched the team from the sideline.
Now, in his second fall camp, he has the opportunity to win the starting job.
“For me, its just playing my game,” Hillstead explained. “Put it all on tape, be your best self, and try to go get it.”
The decision is far from made, but Hillstead has trust in himself and his knowledge of the offense.
He explained that a lot of work was required in year one as he moved from an RPO-heavy offense to a more pro-style system with the Cougars.
But now, he’s confident in the work he’s put in and doesn’t have to think too hard when running the show.
“It was just getting reps and experience with the guys,” Hillstead said. “Figuring some of those things out, getting versed in some of that stuff, and mastering the offense has been big for me. I don’t think when I’m out there. I can get guys where they need to be going.”
BYU opens its schedule against Portland State on Saturday, August 30. There will likely be an official starting quarterback announcement before game one.
