The Big 12's Running Back Renaissance: Can Anyone Dethrone LJ Martin?
The Big 12 is poised for a running back revolution in 2026, and at the heart of this storm stands BYU's LJ Martin. But is his throne secure? Let's dive into the talent pool and explore the narratives that make this season so compelling.
The Reigning King: LJ Martin's Legacy in the Making
LJ Martin isn't just a running back; he's a phenomenon. His 2025 stats are jaw-dropping: 1,305 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and a receiving game that adds another dimension to his threat. What's truly remarkable is his decision to return for his senior year, passing up the NFL draft. This isn't just about personal glory; it's about leading BYU to the College Football Playoff, a dream that's eluded them for two years.
Personally, I think this decision speaks volumes about Martin's character and his commitment to his team. It's a rare sight in today's college football landscape, where early departures are the norm.
But there's a shadow looming over Martin's reign: his injury history. He's been sidelined before, and the question lingers—can he stay healthy for a full season? What many people don't realize is that his durability could be the deciding factor in BYU's playoff aspirations.
The Challengers: A Field of Talented Contenders
The Big 12 isn't short on running back talent. Cameron Dickey of Texas Tech is a scoring machine, with 14 rushing touchdowns in 2025. One thing that immediately stands out is his ability to find the end zone, a skill that could be crucial in a league where every point matters.
Then there's Caleb Hawkins, the scoring sensation from North Texas who's now at Oklahoma State. His 25 touchdowns in 2025 are a testament to his nose for the end zone. From my perspective, Hawkins is the wild card in this race. Can he replicate his success in a power conference?
Cam Cook, the nation's leading rusher in 2025 at Jacksonville State, is another name to watch. His reunion with offensive line coach Rick Trickett at West Virginia could be a game-changer. What this really suggests is that Cook has the potential to dominate, but the transition to a new team always comes with questions.
The Dark Horses and the Unknowns
Beyond the top contenders, there's a wealth of talent waiting to break out. Wayshawn Parker of Utah, despite a strong 2025, faces an offensive line in flux. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the year Parker truly shines, but it's a gamble.
Makhi Hughes, a former star at Tulane, is looking to rebound after a disappointing stint at Oregon. This raises a deeper question: Can players who transfer down regain their form? Hughes' performance at Houston will be a fascinating case study.
And let's not forget the likes of Jeremy Payne at TCU, Dawson Pendergrass at Baylor, and the UCF duo of Landen Chambers and Duke Watson. Each brings a unique story and a chance to rewrite the narrative.
The Bigger Picture: A League in Transition
The Big 12's running back landscape is a microcosm of college football's broader trends. Transfers, injuries, and the constant search for the next star create a dynamic, unpredictable environment. A detail that I find especially interesting is how these players' stories intersect with their teams' fortunes. Martin's health, Hawkins' transition, Cook's reunion—these aren't just individual storylines; they're pivotal to their teams' success.
As we look ahead to the 2026 season, the question remains: Will LJ Martin continue his dominance, or will a new star emerge? In my opinion, this season promises not just great football, but a narrative richness that will keep fans engaged from start to finish. The Big 12's running backs are more than athletes; they're characters in a drama that's about to unfold.
