BYU Star LJ Martin Could Return for Rivalry Game Against Utah

LJ Martin Eyeing Holy War Return

No. 9 BYU could get a big boost for Saturday's matchup against No. 3 Utah in Salt Lake City. Star running back LJ Martin is trending toward dressing and playing in the game, according to report details.

Martin was listed as doubtful on the initial Big 12 availability report released Wednesday night. Sources indicate the reigning conference offensive player of the year is aiming to play and make an impact, even if he is not at 100 percent. A final decision will come later in the week.

BYU Performance During Injury Absence

The senior running back has been out since suffering a lower body injury during a 17-10 victory over TCU on Oct. 3. At the time, he was expected to miss four to six weeks.

Before his injury, the 6 foot 2, 225 pound back ran for 344 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 7.8 yards per carry this season. Last season in 2025, Martin ran for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns while leading BYU to 12 wins and a Big 12 championship game appearance.

BYU has posted a 3-1 record without Martin. Sione Moa and Preston Rex have filled in for most of the reps. The only defeat came in a 39-31 double overtime loss at UCF, which happened a week after defeating Notre Dame.

BYU enters Saturday having won three straight games in the Holy War rivalry. Utah's losses during that stretch have been tight, coming by an average of just 4.3 points.

What it means for the next game

BYU Cougars at Utah Utes (College Football, Sat, 07 Nov): Utah Utes win 60%, BYU Cougars win 40%; projected score Utah Utes 27, BYU Cougars 22. Our safest pick: Over 38.5 points.

Utah Utes at Arizona Wildcats (College Football, Sat, 14 Nov): Arizona Wildcats win 45%, Utah Utes win 55%; projected score Arizona Wildcats 25, Utah Utes 26. Our safest pick: Arizona +11.5.