BYU star running back LJ Martin is questionable to return for Saturday’s massive Big 12 showdown against No. 3 Utah, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Thamel reported Wednesday that Martin has been cleared to practice and has been available this week. However, even if Martin returns against the Utes, he is not expected to be 100% healthy and could see a limited workload.
Martin has missed BYU’s last four games after suffering a lower-body injury during the Cougars’ October 3 victory over TCU.
The 2025 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year was originally expected to miss four to six weeks, putting his availability for the Holy War in serious doubt.
Before suffering the injury, Martin had rushed for 344 yards and three touchdowns this season, averaging an impressive 7.8 yards per carry.
His absence has been particularly noticeable in recent weeks.
BYU managed just 47 rushing yards on 29 attempts in Saturday’s 27-20 victory over Arizona State. The Cougars also struggled to establish their rushing attack in their previous game, an overtime loss to UCF.
Getting Martin back, even in a limited capacity, would provide a significant boost for an offense that has increasingly relied on quarterback Bear Bachmeier.
Earlier this week, BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick acknowledged that Martin had returned to practice but cautioned against assuming he would be available Saturday.
“He practiced today,” Roderick said Tuesday. “I’d say he did some good things. I’d say it’s too soon to say if he’s going to be ready by Saturday.”
The timing couldn’t be more important for BYU.
The Cougars enter Saturday’s rivalry game at 7-1 overall and 4-1 in Big 12 play, while Utah remains unbeaten at 8-0 and 5-0 in the conference.
Utah also boasts one of the nation’s better rushing defenses, allowing approximately 101 yards per game on the ground.
Saturday’s Holy War carries enormous implications for both the Big 12 Championship race and the College Football Playoff.
For BYU, the biggest question may be whether its most important offensive weapon can return in time to make a difference.
Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at noon ET on ABC.
