BYU Sports Nation
BYU Sports Nation

Nov 5, 2026 · 50 min

BYU weighs defense against Utah without Martin

Can BYU Beat Utah Without LJ Martin?

BYU’s top-10 rivalry game may hinge on whether its defense can contain Devin Dampier while an uncertain rushing attack protects the offense.

3 key takeaways
  1. 1L.J. Martin’s injury leaves BYU weighing Preston Rex, its offensive line, and its receivers as alternatives in the rushing attack.
  2. 2Bear Bachmeier faces Devin Dampier in a matchup shaped by supporting casts, venue, and the pressure of a rivalry game.
  3. 3Faletau Satuala says disciplined assignments and tackling can slow Utah’s versatile offense and help create the turnovers BYU needs.

Don't miss

Faletau Satuala explains how disciplined assignments and tackling can slow Utah’s versatile offense in the rivalry game.

The brief

BYU’s rivalry preview starts with L.J. Martin’s uncertain availability and asks whether the Cougars can sustain their rushing attack without him.

The quarterback matchup between Bear Bachmeier and Devin Dampier is less about individual statistics than supporting casts, home-field pressure, and who handles the moment in Salt Lake City.

The hosts identify defensive pressure, takeaways, field position, and ball security as the likely separators in a game that could turn on reaching roughly 24 points first.

Jen Rockwood reflects on her final regular-season home match at South Field, while the broader headlines include BYU’s Big 12 title hopes and other Cougars sports.

Faletau Satuala explains how disciplined assignments and tackling can slow Utah’s versatile offense, giving the defensive case its clearest voice.

The episode closes by honoring former BYU and San Francisco 49ers linebacker Todd Schell and returning to the question of whether offense or defense must lead.

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