Kalani Sitake Drops New QB Camp Update as He Confirms Justin Kirkland Injury Struggles
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake has given fans a clearer picture of the team’s quarterback race and injury concerns just weeks before the 2025 season kicks off. Speaking during fall camp, Sitake confirmed that defensive tackle Justin Kirkland, a 345-pound transfer from Oklahoma State, is dealing with a lingering knee issue that has limited his participation. The news comes as BYU works to fine-tune its roster ahead of their August 30 season opener against Portland State.
The quarterback battle is at the heart of BYU’s preseason storyline. With Jake Retzlaff transferring to Tulane, Sitake has turned to McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier to compete for the QB1 role. Hillstead, a transfer from Utah State, is believed to be leading the race, but Sitake emphasized that the competition is far from over. “We’re turning up the heat to see who cracks,” he said, underscoring the need for quick decision-making under pressure.
On the defensive side, Kirkland’s absence is a concern. Sitake praised the depth and performance of his defensive line, noting that the interior front held strong in recent scrimmages against a formidable offensive line. However, he acknowledged that Kirkland’s size, experience, and disruptive ability are vital for the Cougars to maintain their dominance—especially after ranking No. 2 nationally in forced turnovers last season.
With less than three weeks until kickoff, Sitake’s challenge is twofold: finalize a starting quarterback who can lead the offense with poise, and get Kirkland healthy enough to anchor a defensive front built to compete in the Big 12. For BYU fans, the next few practices could be decisive in shaping the team’s chances of making a serious run this year.
