In a challenging outing for the BYU Cougars, running back LJ Martin exited the game with an injury during the first quarter of their matchup against Iowa State. The incident occurred after Martin’s final rush of the quarter, which left the Cougars trailing by a score of 17-7.
Injury Details of BYU Running Back LJ Martin
After sustaining the injury, Martin was assessed on the sidelines before entering the medical tent. He later left the tent and proceeded to the locker room, accompanied by medical personnel. Reports indicated that Martin would not return for the remainder of the game, putting additional pressure on true freshman Bear Bachmeier to lead the offense.
Game Context and Performance
The BYU Cougars entered this game ranked No. 11 and faced a tough challenge at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Iowa State opened the game explosively, scoring a 75-yard touchdown on their first offensive play. This early setback established a tone that the Cougars struggled to overcome throughout the game.
- First Quarter Score: Iowa State 17, BYU 7
- Yards Gained: Iowa State 192, BYU 81
- BYU Penalties: Three
- Third Down Conversions: 0 for 1
BYU managed to respond with a scoring drive but could not contain the formidable rushing attack of the Cyclones. As a result, the Cougars found themselves in a precarious position as they moved into the second half.
Upcoming Schedule for BYU Cougars
Following the game against Iowa State, the Cougars are scheduled for a bye week before taking on the Texas Tech Red Raiders on November 8, 2025. The full schedule for BYU’s 2025 football season is as follows:
| Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| September 2 | Portland State | W 69-0 |
| September 9 | Stanford | W 27-3 |
| September 16 | East Carolina | W 34-13 |
| September 23 | Colorado | W 24-21 |
| September 30 | West Virginia | W 38-24 |
| October 7 | Arizona | W 33-27 |
| October 14 | Utah | W 24-21 |
| October 21 | Iowa State | – |
| November 8 | Texas Tech | – |
| November 15 | TCU | – |
| November 22 | Cincinnati | – |
| November 29 | UCF | – |
As the Cougars look to rebound, they will need to address their performance issues, especially with vital players like LJ Martin sidelined. The ability of Bear Bachmeier and other teammates to step up will be crucial in the upcoming contests.
