Broncos Country, if you are watching Week 5 of NCAA football, your eyes need to be glued to BYU senior LJ Martin, a running back who could absolutely inject some much-needed power into the Broncos’ ground game. Let’s be real, any fan would admit the Broncos have issues running the ball to start the season. It is still a relatively mild concern, but if things keep up, a talent like Martin could become very intriguing.
A BYU Bruiser to Boost the Ground Game
Martin, a senior who opted for his fourth and final season with the Cougars, is coming off an impressive junior campaign. Last year, he piled up 236 rushes for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns. But he wasn’t just a ground threat, he was also a viable receiver out of the backfield, hauling in 36 catches for 255 yards. This dude is a physical marvel at 6’2″ and 220 pounds, a true throwback runner who wins between the tackles and gets downhill in a hurry. He consistently ranks among the nation’s best in yards after contact and forcing missed tackles. Sure, he doesn’t have elite athleticism or breakaway speed, but his strengths are extremely enticing.
Right now, the Broncos have made investments in RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman over the past two drafts, and J.K. Dobbins was re-upped to a two-year deal. But Dobbins hasn’t looked as explosive as he did in the first part of their 2025 campaign. While an early investment at running back isn’t a top-tier need right now, if the stable of backs continues to struggle, you can bet Denver will be intrigued by the BYU standout. There is a long way to go, but Martin could absolutely be a Top 100 pick next April. You can catch Martin and the tenth-ranked Cougars this evening when they go up against TCU on the road.
Another X-Factor Receiver Emerges
Beyond the run game, the hunt for receiving talent never stops, especially with Courtland Sutton’s age and salary cap situation making the “X position” a point of interest. Arizona State’s Reed Harris fits the bill for that kind of prospect. Harris started his college career at Boston College in 2023, where he didn’t play much as a freshman. But in 2024, he became a full-time starter for the Eagles and snatched 17 receptions for 481 yards and four touchdowns. That’s a ridiculous 28.6 yards per catch average. In 2025, he notched 39 catches for 673 yards and five touchdowns.
As Week 5 unfolds across the NCAA, keeping tabs on Martin’s road game against TCU is a must for anyone looking to see who might be suiting up for the Broncos in the future.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
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