BYU Stats Spotlight: Four Stunning Numbers, Highlighting Carsen Ryan’s Impact at Tight End
These remarkable stats showcase BYU’s run-stopping defense, LJ Martin’s dominance on the ground, Carsen Ryan revitalizing the tight end role in the passing game, and Will Ferrin’s elite reliability.
BYU rolled past Stanford 27-3 in a strong yet imperfect outing to remain unbeaten at 2-0. In this weekly “BYU Stats Spotlight” feature, we’ll examine some of the most eye-opening numbers from both single games and the early season. This week’s set is particularly impressive.
BYU’s run defense has surrendered just 14 rushing yards in two games!
Defensive mastermind Jay Hill has his group firing. Against Portland State, the Cougars held them to minus-five rushing yards on 24 tries. Versus Stanford, the defense allowed only 19 rushing yards on 24 carries. Add that up, and BYU has given up only 14 rushing yards on 48 attempts through two contests. That’s almost unreal.
LJ Martin is averaging 9.3 yards every time he carries
In the opener against Portland State, LJ Martin racked up 130 yards on just eight rushes. The following week against Stanford, he produced 110 yards on 18 attempts. That brings him to 26 carries for 241 yards this season, an astounding 9.3 yards per attempt. If Martin can stay healthy, he’s on track for one of BYU’s most memorable rushing campaigns.
Carsen Ryan’s 83 receiving yards nearly equal last year’s top TE
In his first two games with BYU, Carsen Ryan has hauled in 83 receiving yards. Last season, freshman Ryner Swanson led the tight ends with only 91 for the entire year. Fans have long pushed for BYU to get its tight ends more involved through the air. Ryan is proving to be that long-awaited difference-maker.
Will Ferrin has connected on 22 consecutive field goals, a BYU record
This number is extraordinary. College kickers often struggle with consistency, and it’s common to see mid-range attempts pulled wide. We sometimes forget after watching NFL kickers drill long-distance kicks that college football is much less reliable. BYU, however, has one of the most dependable legs in the nation, with Ferrin giving Cougar fans unmatched confidence every time he lines up.
