By : Joshua Torres
(Photo/Joshua Torres- The Mojo Network)
BYU’s offense leaned on a fully healthy LJ Martin, who looked like his early-season self for the first time since mid-October. Martin powered through tackles, extended plays, and added receiving production while overwhelming Cincinnati’s defense. When healthy, he is one of the best running backs in the Big 12, and Saturday showed he is ready for the Cougars’ championship push.
Tayvion Beasley and Isaiah Glasker delivered one of the game’s most important moments. Early in the fourth quarter, Beasley’s tackle on Cyrus Allen jarred the ball loose. Officials initially ruled Allen down, but Glasker alertly scooped the ball and continued playing. A review overturned the call, giving BYU possession and allowing the Cougars to drain valuable time off the clock.
BYU’s defense dominated Cincinnati’s rushing attack. The Bearcats had leaned heavily on their ground game during their strong start, but BYU’s front controlled the line of scrimmage from start to finish. Through three quarters, Cincinnati possessed the ball for only 14 minutes and managed just 69 rushing yards.
Third-down defense once again separated BYU. For the second consecutive week, the Cougars allowed only one third-down conversion in the opponent’s first 10 attempts. The combination of pressure, discipline, and strong tackling continues to define Jay Hill’s group.
Tanner Wall added another timely play with his fourth interception of the season to open the second half. The pick set up an 11-play scoring drive that pushed the lead to two possessions, exemplifying the complementary football that has fueled BYU’s rise.
The biggest concern of the night came when star receiver Chase Roberts exited with an injury in the second quarter and did not return. He was later seen in street clothes, leaving his status uncertain heading into next week’s must-win game against UCF. BYU will need to decide whether to rest him or push for a return as it aims to clinch a berth in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Special teams offered mixed results. A 57-yard punt return briefly gave Cincinnati momentum, but the Bearcats ultimately hurt themselves with three missed field goals from previously reliable kicker Stephen Rusnak and an offsides penalty on a BYU punt that extended a Cougars drive.
BYU now returns home with everything still in front of them and a chance to punch their ticket to the conference title game.