UNDISPUTED: Will BYU Star LJ Martin Become the GREATEST Running Back in BYU Football History? | Legacy, Records & Good Locker Room Vibes Abound

BYU running back LJ Martin stands on the edge of history, poised to become the BYU football program’s all-time leading rusher while also carrying the title of reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. His journey is one marked by grit, ambition, and a hunger to elevate both his personal game and the fortunes of the BYU Cougars. Facing tough decisions after a breakout season, LJ Martin opens up to Jake Hatch about why he chose to forgo the NFL Draft—despite widespread speculation about his status as a priority pick—and return to Provo for one more run with his teammates. NFL scouts are watching closely: will LJ Martin match or surpass legends like Jamaal Williams, Harvey Unga, and Tyler Allgeier to set a new standard for Cougar running backs?

Listeners get unprecedented access to LJ Martin’s mindset during this pivotal offseason. After missing spring ball to recover from shoulder surgery, he took on a mentoring role, helping younger running backs develop while staying engaged with the Cougar offense from the sidelines. This episode uncovers how that leadership experience has strengthened team unity and allowed Martin to forge deeper connections—including memorable moments off the field, like competitive all-you-can-eat pancake outings with quarterback Bear Bachmeier and teammates. The chemistry in BYU’s locker room is undeniable, fueled not only by shared triumphs but also the sting of close defeats, most notably back-to-back heartbreakers against Texas Tech.

The conversation shifts to personal motivations: is breaking the rushing record truly Martin’s top priority? He reveals that team success and one last shot with his “guys” overrides individual milestones, even as his on-field production and durability are put to the ultimate test. As the fall season approaches, anticipation is building—can LJ Martin deliver another dominant campaign and lead BYU toward a Big 12 title or even a College Football Playoff berth?

This candid interview provides a comprehensive look at LJ Martin’s BYU experience, his playful spirit, and what Cougar fans can expect from their star running back in a highly anticipated final season. Will he finish as the greatest runner in BYU Football history? Cougar Nation waits with bated breath.

Support Locked On Cougars:

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!

Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. 

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

SUPPORT US BY SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS

FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 

Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.

If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected].

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.