Miami's Top Target Sprained Ankle in Practice

The No. 1 ranked Miami Hurricanes lost their leading receiver to an injury during Wednesday practice.

Wide receiver Malachi Toney suffered an ankle sprain while participating in team drills.

Sources told CBS Sports that the medical staff believes the injury is not severe.

Toney has not been ruled out for the matchup against Notre Dame on Saturday.

He continues to undergo evaluation to determine if he is ready to play.

Toney is the primary offensive weapon for Miami this season.

He leads the team with 73 receptions, 1,027 receiving yards, and 13 touchdowns.

His production has placed him in the running for the Heisman Trophy alongside quarterback Darian Mensah.

The potential absence of Toney is a major setback for the Hurricanes.

The game against the Irish is considered the most critical contest on Miami's schedule.

If Toney plays, any physical limitations could affect the offense.

Creating big plays against a talented Notre Dame defense is harder when the top target is restricted in movement space or downfield speed. The Irish defense is expected to use multiple players to contain Toney. A reduction in his ability to move is a substantial disadvantage for Miami. The rivalry between the schools has personal stakes for Toney. Last year in the season opener, the freshman recorded six catches for 82 yards and a touchdown. The Hurricanes won that game 27-24. That performance is why the Notre Dame coaching staff views Toney as the central figure in their defensive game plan. Toney accounts for 38.6 percent of Miami's receiving yards and 46.4 percent of their receiving touchdowns. The offense relies heavily on his production. Without him at full strength, Miami may struggle to maintain the scoring output that has kept them ranked first. Saturday's game is also a key stage for the Heisman race. Playing against a high-profile opponent is often the type of performance that shifts voting patterns. An injury could alter the trajectory of both Toney and Mensah's award bids. The coaching staff and medical team are monitoring Toney's progress throughout the week. Updates on his status will be provided as more information becomes available. The outcome of his evaluation will dictate the strategic adjustments Miami makes. The Hurricanes remain optimistic but cautious. The focus is on managing Toney's workload while ensuring he is ready to face one of the nation's best defensive units. The next few days will determine whether the team's top receiver takes the field at full tilt or plays a more limited role.