BYU Running Back LJ Martin Will Miss Iowa State Game
Starting running back LJ Martin is sidelined with an injury ahead of the Friday night matchup in Provo.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Would you be more likely to attend a game if a star opposing player is injured?
BYU starting running back LJ Martin will miss this Friday night's game against Iowa State due to an injury. The team currently holds an undefeated 4-0 record this season.
Why it matters
Martin's absence deprives the BYU offense of a key playmaker who recorded 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns during the 2025 season. His loss forces the program to adjust its ground strategy for a significant conference test.
Martin has contributed 344 rushing yards and three touchdowns to BYU's 4-0 start this season. His absence follows a 2025 campaign where he tallied 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
The players
LJ Martin
He is the starting running back for the BYU football team.
Bear Bachmeier
He is the quarterback for BYU who will lead the ground game committee.
The details
BYU plans to shift to a running back committee approach to fill the void, with quarterback Bear Bachmeier expected to play a central role in the ground game. Iowa State, which recently allowed 291 rushing yards to West Virginia and 200 yards to Utah, is preparing to counter by defending against dual-threat quarterback options.
Timeline
Friday night: Iowa State faces BYU in Provo.
Season Trajectory
This injury forces an immediate pivot in BYU's offensive strategy during a critical 4-0 start to the season. The outcome of this game will significantly impact the team's standing within the conference race as they adjust to life without their lead back.
The transition to a running back committee led by quarterback Bear Bachmeier suggests a heavier reliance on designed runs for the quarterback position. Fantasy managers and fans should expect a shift in backfield carries following Martin's 344-yard output this season.
The takeaway
Relying on a committee approach creates significant uncertainty for the team's efficiency in the red zone. Success will depend on the quarterback's ability to maintain high yardage totals against an Iowa State defense that has struggled to contain opposing ground games.
Further reading
For more updates on team rosters and conference standings, visit /sports/football/.
Live Poll
Would you be more likely to attend a game if a star opposing player is injured?
