Miami’s much-anticipated clash against Notre Dame on Saturday night has gained another layer of intrigue. The health of Heisman Trophy contender Malachi Toney is now a major concern for the Hurricanes. As the No. 1 team, Miami already faced challenges as underdogs in South Bend. Without Toney, head coach Mario Cristobal loses a key offensive player alongside quarterback Darian Mensah.
During practice on Wednesday, Toney experienced an ankle injury. This forced him to leave and seek immediate medical evaluation. The injury poses a potential threat to Miami’s national title ambitions.
Initially, there was some optimism that Toney might still play on Saturday. However, concerns grew that he might miss extended time. Miami released a statement saying, “Malachi Toney sustained an injury during Wednesday’s practice and is currently undergoing further evaluation by the team’s medical staff. We will share additional updates as appropriate.”
Toney’s medical assessment led to a decision for surgery. CBS Sports reported he suffered a high-ankle sprain and will have “TightRope” surgery. Miami hopes for his return in four to six weeks for the College Football Playoff. While Miami officials maintain hope, the situation remains precarious.
Several gambling establishments adjusted the odds, moving Notre Dame from 5-point favorites to 6.5 by Wednesday evening. This reflects Toney’s influence on Miami’s chances.
Miami’s Offense Without Toney
Toney’s health will remain a focus over the next month. After their victory against North Carolina, he has 1,027 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns on 73 receptions. Miami’s offense without its star will be tested, especially with him undergoing surgery.
Like many players eight games into the season, Toney has faced typical wear and tear. If Miami loses on Saturday without him, their rankings could face scrutiny. Ohio State’s penalty for missing Julian Sayin after their loss to USC serves as a comparison. How will the committee view Miami missing a Heisman candidate?
Notre Dame’s Crucial Opportunity
For Notre Dame, this game presents a key opportunity. Ranked 11th in the initial CFP poll, the Fighting Irish lack a signature win. Only one ranked team, BYU, appears on their schedule in the CFP top 25. Notre Dame lost that matchup.
“When you look at Notre Dame’s schedule and the wins they have versus the teams ahead, they lack that signature win. They lost at BYU. The next best win was against Wisconsin on a neutral site,” CFP chairman Hunter Yurachek noted.
Notre Dame now faces a pivotal game against Miami, with a chance to boost their rankings. Following the Miami game, they play Boston College, SMU, and Syracuse. Only SMU has a winning record.
The focus will shift from Notre Dame’s playoff standings to how Miami will perform without their Heisman contender.
Trey Wallace is the Senior College Sports Reporter for OutKick.
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