The timing of injuries is always inconvenient. For the BYU Cougars, the biggest question after LJ Martin’s injury was could they perform well enough until he returns. Hopefully before the Holy War, but certainly before the final stretch of the season and possible postseason games.

The reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year is trending towards being available for BYU as early as Saturday against undefeated Utah.

As of Thursday's availability report, Martin was upgraded to questionable. According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, Martin is trending in the right direction to be available on Saturday. "Martin practiced the last three days for BYU. He’s on track to dress and attempt to play on Saturday," Thamel wrote. "He’ll likely be limited, but he’s determined to impact the game. How he feels pre-game will determine the extent of his role."

This is not a situation where fans should expect to see Martin start. He could even be a ‘break open glass in case of an emergency situation. The first step will be if he dresses for the game in Salt Lake City. Then the rest of his usage could come down to the events that transpire within the game.

Based on his health and fitness, Martin could be available to contribute in stretches, but could be put on a ‘pitch count’. Another eventuality could be only if he’s needed. Perhaps in the goal line or primarily first downs. Even if Martin is only used sparingly, it’s a win for the BYU Cougars to have that option.

This news comes at an important time as BYU will enter the Holy War with almost four times the reported injured players as Utah. Even if Martin plays, the Cougars will be without ten players. While Utah will be at almost full strength.

BYU’s ability to beat a top program in Notre Dame without the services of Martin should remain an optimistic factor for fans. If the Cougars can add in Martin, even if it's strategic, and he’s limited, the outlook for BYU in this game is brighter than it would be without him.

Utah is undefeated and beating teams handily. However, there are two large elephants in the room from two different sides of the spectrum. There were only two games that were ‘close’. An eight-point win over No. 14 Houston could spell trouble in the Playoff if several things go their way. Like Utah and Texas Tech taking additional losses. The second win is much more confounding. A three-point win against a 3-win Colorado team. Colorado admittedly has a significant defense, but not so significant to make sense of that result.

Utah is not unbeatable. Even without Martin, the Holy War would be a competitive game. With Martin, it adds a wrinkle Utah has to its game plan. The only question is, will Martin’s role and possible performance feel more like Adrian Peterson after his ACL tear, or will it be more of a Willis McGahee situation?

No. 7 BYU travels to Salt Lake City to face No. 3 Utah on Saturday. The game kicks off at Noon ET on ABC.