Malachi Toney’s Status Uncertain After Ankle Injury

Miami star receiver Malachi Toney hurt his ankle during practice on November 4, putting his availability for the Hurricanes’ November 7 game against Notre Dame in doubt. He is being evaluated and has not been ruled out. A Miami coach expressed hope that Toney would be able to return to practice the following day and play Saturday, describing the injury as not serious and unlikely to have lasting effects.

Toney has 73 catches for 1,027 yards and 13 touchdowns through eight games. He is a Heisman contender alongside quarterback Darian Mensah and has accounted for 38.6% of Miami’s receiving yards and 46.4% of its receiving touchdowns. The Hurricanes are undefeated, and Notre Dame’s defense will face a major challenge if Toney is available at full strength.

Toney caught six passes for 82 yards and a touchdown against Notre Dame last season. If he cannot play or is limited, Cooper Barkate, who has 28 catches, 372 yards and four touchdowns, could take on a larger role. Daylyn Upshaw, tight end Elija Lofton and Miami’s running game may also be called upon. Toney has returned quickly from several earlier minor injuries this season, including during a game against Pittsburgh, when he later caught a 53-yard touchdown.