Is BYU prepared to face Big 12 race without star RB LJ Martin?
Deseret News • • sports
Key Points:
- BYU faces a challenge against Iowa State without star running back LJ Martin, who is sidelined for 4-6 weeks with a lower body injury, putting pressure on backups Preston Rex, Journee Tonga, and Devaughn Eka to step up.
- Despite Martin's absence, BYU has a history of winning games without him, going 4-0 in recent games he missed, but the offense will need to rely more on passing and tight ends while avoiding penalties and mistakes.
- Utah, ranked No. 12, is expected to comfortably handle Kansas, leveraging a strong ground game led by Wayshawn Parker, while Utah State is projected to have a close contest against Washington State.
- BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick expresses confidence in the team's offense despite Martin's injury, emphasizing a committee approach and the need for efficient execution.
- The article includes weekly college football picks, forecasting BYU to beat Iowa State 34-17 and Utah to defeat Kansas 42-24.
