WR Malachi Toney to Undergo Ankle Surgery

Miami Hurricanes' wide receiver Malachi Toney will undergo surgery on his injured ankle, according to reports. The injury, sustained during Wednesday's practice, has worsened beyond initial expectations.

Further evaluation indicates the ankle injury will necessitate surgical intervention. While the exact timeline for Toney's return remains uncertain, officials expect him to be ready for the postseason if the team qualifies for the College Football Playoffs.

Earlier in the day, there was optimism that Toney might play through the injury in the upcoming game against Notre Dame. That hope has been dashed, with Toney now expected to miss a significant portion of the season.

The Hurricanes are now considered a touchdown underdog against the Irish, with the spread increasing throughout the afternoon. Toney's absence is a major blow to Miami's offense, which relies heavily on his production.

Through eight games, Toney ranks third nationally in receiving yards with 1,023, second in receptions with 73, and second in touchdown receptions with 13. He accounts for 33 percent of all passing targets for the team this season.

Pro Football Focus rates Toney as the top pass catcher in the country with a 95.0 receiving grade. He has not dropped a catchable pass all season and had his best performance against Pittsburgh, catching 16 passes for 194 yards and three touchdowns.