BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier was named to the preseason watch list for the Manning Award, sponsored by the Allstate Sugar Bowl, according to a August 24 report. The 2026 watch list includes 40 of the nation's top quarterbacks entering the college football season.
Bachmeier, a sophomore from Murrieta, California, recorded 3,033 passing yards and 15 touchdowns on 251 completions in 2025. During that season, he also had 527 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns.
As an offensive co-captain, Bachmeier helped lead No. 12 BYU to an 11-2 record in 2025, which included a trip to the Big 12 Championship and an invitation to the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He was named the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year and received Big 12 Honorable Mention honors.
In addition to the Manning Award recognition, Bachmeier was named to the preseason watch lists for the 2026 Davey O’Brien Quarterback Award and the Maxwell Award. He was also named Preseason All-Big 12 by both Phil Steele and Pro Football Network.
The Manning Award Midseason Watch List is scheduled to be released on Nov. 5. The winner of the award will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship on Jan. 27.
BYU is scheduled to begin its 2026 football season against Utah Tech on Saturday, Sept. 5 at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
