‘True Competitor’ Bryson Barnes Gives Utah State Chance To Win In 2025
Jul 17, 2025, 12:51 PM
Bryson Barnes #18 of the Utah State Aggies was recently named to the KSL Sports Zone 60 in 60 watchlist for 2025. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
(Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY – What Utah State lacks in returning players, they make up for with sixth-year quarterback Bryson Barnes leading the Aggie offense.
Entering his second season in Logan, Barnes is the latest entry into the 2025 KSL Sports Zone, Hans & Scotty G. 60 in 60 watchlist
“Bryson Barnes is a true competitor,” USU head coach Bronco Mendenhall said of the Milford, Utah, product. “He’s tough, he’s mature, he’s seasoned. He throws the ball well, good decision maker, and he can move the ball really well with his legs.”
Mendenhall highlighted Barnes’ leadership ability for a young team.
“I like the identity of Bryson as our quarterback under my leadership. I think there’s a lot that aligns there well. I think he gives us a good chance to win.”
Barnes gained 1,387 yards of total offense in 2024 and set a program record for QB rushing yards in a single game with 193 yards on 15 carries against San Diego State.
The Milford, Utah native completed 77-of-126 passes (61.1 percent) for 856 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions.
About Utah State’s Bryson Barnes
Barnes was no secret in Utah high school football after he earned 1A First-Team All-State recognition as a sophomore, junior, and senior at Milford High School. He finished his prep career with the Utah state record for touchdown passes (137).
Despite his polished prep resume, Barnes chose to walk on at the University of Utah in 2020.
He redshirted as a freshman before playing 13 games (1 start) the next two years.
Behind the camera with @bryson_barnes10 & @Tokomico! 📸#AggiesAllTheWay pic.twitter.com/IYznMcuKEc
— USU Football (@USUFootball) July 17, 2025
Barnes played in 11 games for the Utes in 2023, finishing with 1,572 yards on 142-of-242 passing (11 INT, 12 TD) while contributing 90 carries for 265 yards and three rushing touchdowns. He threw for a career-high 320 yards on 31-of-53 passing (2 INT, 2 TD) against No. 17 Arizona.
The 6’2, 205-pound pig farmer earned Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week and Davey O’Brien Great 8 recognition after leading Utah to a win over No. 18 USC. Barnes threw for 235 yards and three touchdowns (14-of-23, 1 INT) with 10 rushes for a season-best 57 yards and a rushing touchdown.
RELATED STORIES
What is the 60 in 60?
Hans and Scotty highlight college football players in the state of Utah with their annual 60 in 60 watchlist.
Check back after the 2025 College Football season to see the final 60 in 60 list.
Are you on Threads yet? Let’s connect; follow us at @kslsports.
Subscribe to the Hans & Scotty G. podcast for college football coverage and more. You can follow Hans and Scotty on X here.
