Full Breakdown
BYU's Running Back Challenges Ahead of the Pop-Tarts Bowl
12/24/2025, 12:27:06 PM
Key Players Missing for BYU
The No. 12 BYU Cougars will face a significant challenge in the upcoming Pop-Tarts Bowl against No. 22 Georgia Tech, as they will be without their top two running backs, LJ Martin and Sione Moa. Head coach Kalani Sitake confirmed that Martin, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, will miss the game due to shoulder surgery he underwent after the Big 12 Championship Game. Martin had a standout season, rushing for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns, making his absence a critical blow to BYU's offensive strategy.
Moa, who served as Martin's backup, is also not listed on the depth chart for the bowl game. He missed most of the season due to complications from an injury sustained earlier in the year. This leaves BYU with a depleted running back corps, relying on Enoch Nawahine, Jovesa Damuni, and Preston Rex, who have combined for only 143 rushing yards this season.
Impact of Injuries on BYU's Offense
With Martin sidelined, BYU's offensive strategy will likely shift to a heavier reliance on freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who has accumulated over 3,200 total yards and 26 touchdowns this season. However, Bachmeier is also nursing an ankle injury, which raises further concerns about BYU's offensive capabilities heading into the bowl game.
The Cougars' depth chart indicates that Nawahine, Damuni, and Rex will be co-starters, but their limited experience and combined rushing totals suggest a challenging game ahead. Sitake acknowledged the need to lean on younger players, stating, "We're going to have to rely on depth in the running back room."
Official Statements & Responses
Kalani Sitake emphasized the timing of Martin's surgery, noting, "There was a small window for him to get this surgery done... it wouldn’t be beneficial for him either way if he had to wait." He also mentioned that Martin would still be present to support his teammates during the bowl game. Despite the setbacks, Sitake expressed confidence in the remaining players, saying, "For the most part, we should have a lot of guys."
Criticism & Opposition
The decision to have Martin undergo surgery has drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding its timing and implications for his future. Some analysts suggest that the decision to prioritize recovery over participation in the bowl game could impact Martin's draft prospects. Additionally, the lack of depth at running back raises questions about BYU's ability to compete effectively against Georgia Tech's defense.
What's Next
The Pop-Tarts Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. MST at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. As BYU prepares for this crucial matchup, the team must navigate the challenges posed by injuries and the absence of key players in their quest for a 12th win of the season.
