BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick stated that the Cougars will continue to run the same offensive scheme despite the loss of star running back LJ Martin, according to a October 8 report.
Martin is expected to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks following an injury sustained against TCU in Week 5. The injury news arrived midweek regarding the player who serves as the primary component of the Cougars' rushing attack.
The injury occurred during a 17-10 victory over TCU. During that game, quarterback Bear Bachmeier contributed 66 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Reserve running backs Preston Rex and Journee Tonga also saw increased usage on the ground, combining for 49 yards on 15 carries. Additionally, wide receiver Legend Glasker recorded 26 yards on four carries during designed runs.
Roderick noted that while Martin is the team's best player and runner, other players are capable of executing the scheme. The offensive coordinator indicated that Devaughn Eka will likely see action in upcoming games. While the exact distribution of carries remains to be seen, the workload is expected to be shared among Tonga, Rex, and Eka.
Martin was named the 2025 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year after recording over 1,300 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. In the 2026 season, he had accumulated 344 yards and three touchdowns on 44 carries prior to his injury.
The BYU offense will face Iowa State next, which will serve as a test for the personnel adjustments before a matchup against Notre Dame.
