Ryder Lyons, a five-star quarterback from Folsom, California, looks increasingly likely to land at BYU. With deep ties to the LDS Church and a planned mission after high school, Lyons fits BYU’s model better than any other program. Oregon remains in the hunt, but USC is now out of the race after Lyons canceled his official visit to Los Angeles.
Why BYU Is in the Lead for Ryder Lyons
BYU football fans, it's officially time to get excited about Ryder Lyons.
The 5-star QB just cancelled his official visit to USC…https://t.co/xkXhF8DTE7
— Diggin’ Brigham (@DigginBrigham) June 6, 2025
BYU’s edge is built around familiarity, mission planning, and faith alignment. Lyons’ family is active in the church, and he’s made it clear that serving a mission is a non-negotiable part of his future. That alone eliminates many major programs from realistic contention. BYU has a long history of handling returned missionaries in its quarterback room — and that experience matters.
- Mission-friendly timeline: expected to enroll spring 2027
- Family has multiple ties to BYU and the Provo area
- Official visit scheduled for June 20
The Cougars have been recruiting him with a post-mission development plan already in place, and the pitch has resonated. The comfort level in Provo is high.
Oregon Making a Push for Lyons
Oregon is now the top challenger. The Ducks are set to host Lyons for an official visit on June 13, and offensive coordinator Will Stein has made him a priority target. Dan Lanning’s staff is selling development, NIL structure, and a strong quarterback track record — and they’re not backing off despite the mission delay.
- Oregon visit confirmed for mid-June
- Stein has taken the lead in building a relationship
- Ducks are comfortable waiting until 2027 to get him on campus
The biggest difference is cultural — not competition. Oregon can offer exposure and talent, but BYU offers alignment and familiarity. That’s the gap Oregon needs to close in the next few weeks.
USC No Longer in Contention for Lyons
USC was once considered a strong contender, thanks in part to Lincoln Riley’s track record with quarterbacks and Lyons’ brother attending the school. But Lyons was asked to cancel his scheduled official visit.
It is believed that the Trojans are now focused elsewhere for their 2027 quarterback. But Lyons could still be taking a visit to the Trojans during the season.
This move just feels like USC are moving away from Lyons, and he will see other suitors as better fits.
Ryder Lyons Production and Profile
Lyons is one of the most productive quarterbacks in California. He’s calm in the pocket, creative on the move, and can make any throw on the field.
He led Folsom to a CIF title as a sophomore and continues to be one of the most polished quarterbacks in the country. He is a legit dual-threat QB bagging over 60 total touchdowns in both 2023 and 2024 in high school.
What Comes Next for Lyons
- June 13: Oregon official visit
- June 20: BYU official visit
- Decision expected this summer
With USC likely out, it’s now a two-team race between Oregon and BYU. The Ducks bring upside and structure. The Cougars bring comfort and alignment. BYU is ahead today, but the next two visits will decide it.
