The Vibe Check
Real talk: BYU’s offense just took a massive L. Star running back and 2025 Big 12 Player of the Year LJ Martin is officially sidelined for at least a month with a lower-body injury. He went down early in last week’s win against TCU after an awkward tackle and didn’t return. The plot thickens because Sione Moa—BYU's other RB1—is also out with an injury from Week 1.
The Stats
Martin has been a total beast, putting up 328 rushing yards and three TDs through just three games this season. In his career, he’s racked up 2,885 rushing yards and 29 total scores. Without him, the run game is hurting. The Cougars only managed 154 yards on the ground against TCU, which is a major drop-off for a team that usually averages 235.5 rushing yards per game.
Why it matters
This injury is highkey bad timing. Martin will definitely miss the October 17 showdown against Notre Dame, a game that’s absolutely critical for both teams' College Football Playoff hopes. BYU’s passing game is currently ranked 114th nationally, and if they can’t run the rock, Notre Dame’s defense is going to have a field day. It's giving "emergency mode" for the Cougars as they look for someone else to step up.
