BYU running back LJ Martin may return to the field this Saturday against Arizona State, according to BYU coach Kalani Sitake, following a lower-leg injury that has sidelined the senior for several weeks. The potential return for the former Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year comes as the Cougars attempt to stabilize an offense that has struggled with rushing production and recent defensive lapses.
Martin's Return and Offensive Struggles
The potential return of Martin marks a significant development for an offense that has faced substantial challenges since his injury. Martin suffered the lower-leg injury during the first half of BYU's 17-10 victory over TCU on Oct. 3, 2026. Since that game, the Cougars have relied on a rotation of backs to manage the workload, including Preston Rex and Journee Tonga.
During a Monday press conference, Sitake noted that Martin is getting close to returning to full action. "LJ’s getting really close," Sitake said. "He’s looking better and we’re we’re seeing him in lots of training. So, he’s getting close, but we want to make sure that it’s right timing for him."
Martin's presence has been sorely missed in the Cougars' ground game. During the 2025 season, Martin recorded 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. In contrast, the BYU offense managed only 73 rushing yards on 18 attempts during a recent loss to UCF last week.
Roster Injuries and Departures
While there is optimism regarding Martin, the BYU roster faces other significant injury setbacks. Cornerback Evan Johnson, who was carried off the field by trainers following an ankle injury during UCF's final two-point conversion, is unlikely to play this weekend. Sitake indicated that while Johnson is expected to miss at least one week, there is a high probability he will return at some point this season.
Additionally, the team is mourning the likely end of offensive lineman Trevin Ostler's BYU career. Ostler, who had been serving as the team's sixth offensive lineman and starting at right guard last week, sustained an injury during the second half of the game against UCF.
"It doesn’t look really good for him," Sitake said of Ostler. "I’m just really proud of that young man for all the stuff that he’s done for BYU and he’s filled in so many different positions." Sitake noted that Ostler was a versatile player capable of playing multiple positions, including tight end.
Addressing Defensive Tackling Issues
The coaching staff is also working to address defensive issues that contributed to the recent loss against UCF. Sitake identified ineffective tackling as a paramount issue that must be corrected as the team prepares for Arizona State.
"When you’re in games, and you’re in the middle of the season I think we’re on the ground way too much in our tackling," Sitake said. He noted that the team needs to focus on driving through contact rather than launching at ball-carriers, which leads to players losing their balance.
Sitake emphasized the importance of players executing their specific roles to avoid duplication on the field. "When everyone’s trying to do more than their job we get in trouble and we even cut each other off," Sitake said, referencing the concept of every one of the 11 players performing their individual responsibility.
Quarterback Performance and Penalties
The recent struggles for BYU follow a period of mixed results for the offense. Earlier in the season, quarterback Bear Bachmeier experienced a career-low in passing yards during the game against TCU, completing only 11 of 24 attempts for 62 yards. This followed back-to-back 200-yard passing performances against Arizona and Colorado State.
Sitake also addressed questions regarding a controversial roughing-the-kicker penalty during the second overtime period of the loss to UCF. The penalty allowed UCF to gain a first down and eventually score eight points. Sitake stated he has not sought an explanation for the call, noting his focus remains on the upcoming matchup against Arizona State.
Player Status Updates
Looking ahead to the matchup against Arizona State, the Cougars are also monitoring the status of other players returning from injury. Sione Moa, who suffered a substantial lower-leg injury during a game against Utah Tech on Sept. 5, 2026, returned to action last week against UCF, recording 36 yards on 13 carries.
Additionally, the coaching staff is monitoring offensive lineman Kyle Sfarcioc, whose availability for the Arizona State game will depend on his progress throughout the week.
Looking Toward Saturday
The game against Arizona State will be the first time since the season opener against Utah Tech that BYU has had the potential benefit of a fully-stocked offensive backfield, provided Martin is cleared to play and Sione Moa is available.
Upcoming Schedule Update
BYU will also host a highly anticipated game against Utah, which was announced Monday to kickoff at 10 a.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN or ABC.
