BYU running back LJ Martin will miss four to six weeks due to a lower-body injury sustained during a victory over TCU, according to a report published October 7. The injury will sideline the senior for the Cougars' Oct. 17 home game against No. 3 Notre Dame.
Martin entered the TCU game averaging 109.3 rushing yards per game. He carried the ball twice for 16 yards before leaving the game in the first quarter. Following the contest, BYU coach Kalani Sitake stated that Martin and linebacker Isaiah Glasker were both standing and moving, though he noted on Monday that both players appeared doubtful while undergoing evaluation.
While Martin is sidelined, BYU will face Iowa State on Friday night. The Cougars' availability report released Tuesday already listed Martin as out for that matchup. Additionally, No. 2 back Sione Moa is also listed as out for Friday's game. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick stated Tuesday that freshman Devaughn Eka could potentially receive carries during the game.
The injury represents a significant loss for the No. 8 BYU offense. Martin has recorded 344 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 44 carries this season, averaging 7.8 yards per carry. In 2025, he led the Big 12 with 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
In the absence of Martin, quarterback Bear Bachmeier led the rushing effort in the win against TCU with 66 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Other contributors included Preston Rex, who ran eight times for 21 yards, and true freshman Journee Tonga, who added 28 yards on seven carries.
The loss of Martin comes at a critical time for the Cougars as they prepare for a series of high-profile matchups. Following the Martin news, analysts noted the difficulty of the upcoming schedule, which includes the Notre Dame game on Oct. 17 and a matchup against Utah early next month. Prior to the injury news, the Cougars were considered an underdog with a 32.3% win probability against Notre Dame.
