The Big 12's Running Back Renaissance: Can Anyone Dethrone LJ Martin?
The Big 12 is buzzing with anticipation for what could be the Year of the Running Back. With a mix of seasoned veterans, explosive newcomers, and intriguing transfers, the conference is poised for a ground-shaking season. But the question on everyone’s mind is: Can anyone catch BYU’s LJ Martin?
LJ Martin: The Unstoppable Force?
LJ Martin isn’t just a running back—he’s a phenomenon. As the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, Martin was the heartbeat of BYU’s 12-win season, racking up 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. What’s truly remarkable is his decision to return for his senior year instead of declaring for the NFL draft. Personally, I think this move speaks volumes about his commitment to BYU’s playoff aspirations. But here’s the catch: Martin’s health has been a lingering concern. If he stays injury-free, he’s a lock for the top spot. If not, the door swings wide open for others.
The Contenders: Who’s Next in Line?
Cameron Dickey (Texas Tech)
Dickey’s 14 rushing touchdowns led the conference last season, and his partnership with J’Koby Williams makes Texas Tech’s backfield a dual-threat powerhouse. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Dickey’s production could skyrocket if Texas Tech’s quarterback situation remains unsettled. He’s not just a runner—he’s a safety net for the offense.
Caleb Hawkins (Oklahoma State)
Hawkins’ transfer from North Texas to Oklahoma State is one of the offseason’s most intriguing moves. After averaging 13.4 points per game in 2025, he’s expected to bring a scoring punch to the Cowboys. In my opinion, Hawkins’ success will hinge on how quickly he adapts to the power conference level. If he does, watch out.
Wayshawn Parker (Utah)
Parker’s late-season surge in 2025 was nothing short of spectacular, averaging 7 yards per carry over the final six games. One thing that immediately stands out is his consistency under pressure. However, Utah’s offensive line overhaul could be a wildcard. If the line gels, Parker could challenge for the top spot.
The Wildcards: Transfers and Breakout Candidates
Cam Cook (West Virginia)
Cook’s nation-leading 1,659 rushing yards at Jacksonville State last season were no fluke. Reuniting with his former offensive line coach, Rick Trickett, could be the catalyst for a monster season. What many people don’t realize is that Cook’s success at West Virginia could redefine the program’s running game.
Makhi Hughes (Houston)
Hughes’ 2025 season at Oregon was a disappointment, but his two-time All-Conference honors at Tulane remind us of his potential. If you take a step back and think about it, Hughes’ reunion with coach Willie Fritz could be the perfect reset for his career.
Jeremy Payne (TCU)
Payne’s breakout potential is undeniable. After a strong finish to 2025, including a bowl game MVP performance, he’s poised to thrive under new offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis. This raises a deeper question: Can Payne become the focal point of TCU’s offense?
The Broader Implications: What This Means for the Big 12
The conference’s running back depth isn’t just a storyline—it’s a strategic shift. With several teams facing quarterback uncertainties, the ground game will be more critical than ever. A detail that I find especially interesting is how this could influence defensive strategies across the league. Teams will need to prioritize stopping the run, which could open up passing lanes for quarterbacks.
The Future: Who’s Next in the Pipeline?
While Martin and others dominate the conversation, younger backs like UCF’s Landen Chambers and Duke Watson are waiting in the wings. What this really suggests is that the Big 12’s running back dominance isn’t a one-year wonder—it’s a trend. As these players develop, the conference could become a breeding ground for elite rushers.
Final Thoughts: A Season to Remember
The 2026 Big 12 season promises to be a showcase of running back talent. While LJ Martin is the clear frontrunner, the competition is fierce, and upsets are inevitable. From my perspective, this season isn’t just about individual accolades—it’s about the resurgence of the running back position in college football. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up. This is going to be a wild ride.
