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Lance is in a battle for the starting tailback job. Martin put in a claim for the role with a solid spring practice performance. In three scrimmages including the Spring Game, he had 32 carries for 170 yards. "We have a number of running backs coming in, but I don't want anybody taking my spot. This spring, I knew I had to be more physical and know my assignments to a 'tee,' so I wouldn't be on the bench," Martin said at the end of spring practice.


Martin was a reserve fullback and special teams player in 2001. His playing time increased the last half of the season and he finished with 17 carries for 59 yards and one pass reception. Martin came to San Jose State after being one of the top all-purpose backs in Northern California during the 1999 season. He was an all-state selection by Student Sports and the Stockton Record's "Player of the Year" for San Joaquin County after leading Stagg High School (Coach Joe Nava) to an 11-1 record. Martin rushed for 2,387 yards on 191 carries and scored 26 touchdowns. He also caught nine passes for 342 yards and three more touchdowns. The two-sport letterwinner also was a sprinter on the track and field team. He has a best time of 21.9 in the 200 meter dash. Active in his local church, he has been a tenor in the church choir since 1995. Lance, a Stockton native, was born on May 18, 1982.