BYU go into Iowa State Vs Byu on Friday night with a clear concern: they will be without LJ Martin for the next four to six weeks. That changes the shape of the discussion around this Big 12 meeting, because BYU are not just facing the Cyclones at home for the first time in almost a month, they are also doing so with one of their key offensive players sidelined.
The timing matters. BYU won this same matchup last season 41-27 after trailing by multiple scores in the first half, and that result showed how dangerous they can be when their offence gets rolling. But this week is different. Without Martin, the focus shifts to how Kalani Sitake's side manage the run game and how much pressure falls on Bear Bachmeier to help carry the attack again.
BYU's offence needs a new reference point
Bear Bachmeier's previous game against Iowa State is the obvious place to start. In last season's win, he produced 307 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 49 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown, while BYU finished with zero turnovers. That is the sort of efficient performance the Cougars will want to lean on again if they are going to stay balanced without Martin.
But there is no getting around the loss. Over the next four to six weeks, BYU must find a way to keep the offence moving without one of its main runners, and that puts even more importance on timing, protection and execution against a disciplined conference opponent.
Stopping the Cyclones on the ground
BYU's challenge is not only about replacing production. They also have to deal with Iowa State's rushing attack, with Aiden Flora coming in after being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week for his five-touchdown showing against WVU. That kind of form creates another layer of pressure for BYU, who will need to be sharp defensively from the start.
The Cyclones do not need much encouragement if the game becomes messy or the momentum swings their way. BYU know that from last season's comeback win, and they will also know that a slow start could make life far more difficult this time around.
What comes next for BYU
The bigger picture is straightforward. This is not just about one Friday night home game. It is about how BYU cope over a four- to six-week stretch without LJ Martin, and whether they can keep their offence stable enough to stay competitive in the Big 12 while he is out.
If Bachmeier can again steady the attack and BYU can handle Iowa State's ground threat, then they give themselves a chance. If not, this could become the kind of injury setback that shapes more than one result.
