Photo via CBS Sports

BYU RB LJ Martin injury: Reigning Big 12 Player of the Year to miss a month, including showdown vs. Notre Dame

Brigham Young University's (BYU) offense faces a significant setback as reigning Big 12 Player of the Year LJ Martin will miss at least a month with a lower-body injury sustained during last week's game against TCU. Martin, who exited the contest after just two carries for 16 yards, was pulled awkwardly in the first quarter and did not return.

His absence is particularly critical as BYU prepares for its October 17 showdown with Notre Dame, a top-10 matchup that holds major implications for both teams' College Football Playoff aspirations. Martin’s impact on the field is substantial, having already amassed 328 rushing yards and three touchdowns in the first three games of the season, along with 41 receiving yards on five catches.

Without him, BYU’s rushing attack—already diminished by the absence of backup Sione Moa—struggled to maintain its usual effectiveness, managing just 154 yards and 4.1 yards per carry in the TCU game. The Cougars, who rank fourth in the Big 12 with 235.5 rushing yards per game, will need to rely on quarterback Bear Bachmeier to contribute more on the ground, as he has already accounted for 130 rushing yards this season.

Martin’s absence leaves BYU scrambling to find a solution to replace his production, both in the running and passing games, as he remains a key weapon in their offensive arsenal.

Up nextCollege Football· 18h ago

Fraud Alert: Notre Dame, Texas Tech, a few surprises face judgment after Week 5