Taysom Hill named BYU's starting QB over Tanner Mangum

Brigham Young quarterback Taysom Hill, celebrating his 26th birthday Tuesday, was named the starter for 2016's season opener against Arizona.

Cougars offensive coordinator Ty Detmer announced the news, and head coach Kalani Sitake called it a "hard decision."

Hill, who has played like a Heisman candidate at times during his career but suffered a season-ending injury in last year's opener, beat out last year's successful replacement Tanner Mangum in a heated quarterback battle that started in the spring and went deep into summer camp. Sitake said Mangum will be the backup and not redshirt. 

Hill's career has been riddled with injuries. On top of missing all of last season following his injury in the opener, his 2014 campaign was cut short after four games. Hill's best season — a healthy one — came in 2013 when he completed 60% of his passes and finished with 2,938 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also ran for 1,344 yards and 10 scores. 

As Hill’s replacement last season, Mangum completed 60%of his passes for 3,377 yards and 23 touchdowns.