Miami will be without one of its most productive offensive players for Saturday’s matchup with Notre Dame after star wide receiver Malachi Toney suffered a high ankle injury at Wednesday’s practice. Multiple reports say Toney is expected to undergo surgery and could be sidelined for at least four weeks.
Toney’s injury is a major setback for Miami
The sophomore leads the Hurricanes with 73 receptions, 1,027 receiving yards and 13 touchdown catches. His production has made him a central part of an offense that has helped Miami begin the season 8-0.
Toney had seven catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns in Miami’s 38-35 win over North Carolina on October 31. His second touchdown gave the Hurricanes an important cushion late in the fourth quarter before North Carolina scored again to make the finish close.
Notre Dame game comes at a difficult time
The injury means Miami is expected to face No. 11 Notre Dame without its leading receiver. The Hurricanes entered the first College Football Playoff rankings at No. 1, while Notre Dame was placed 11th after improving to 7-1.
Miami said Toney was injured during Wednesday’s practice and was undergoing further evaluation by the team’s medical staff. The school did not confirm a detailed recovery timetable in its statement. The expected surgery and minimum four-week absence have been reported by other outlets citing sources.
Could Toney return for the College Football Playoff?
A recovery period of around four weeks would give Toney a chance to return during the College Football Playoff, depending on how rehabilitation progresses. That possibility is significant for a Miami team with national championship ambitions, although no return date has been confirmed.
Miami now faces the challenge of replacing Toney’s catches, yards after the catch and red-zone production against a ranked opponent. The team’s depth at receiver and ability to spread the ball around will be key storylines heading into the Notre Dame game.
Update note: The expected surgery and recovery estimate are based on media reports. Miami’s official statement said Toney was undergoing further evaluation.
Source
Reuters: Reports say Miami’s Malachi Toney will undergo ankle surgery