The No. 8-ranked Miami Hurricanes (8-0) are set to face their most significant test of the season against No. 7 Notre Dame (7-1) on Saturday. However, Miami will be without one of its key offensive weapons, wide receiver Malachi Toney, who is out with an ankle injury requiring surgery.
Toney has been a crucial part of Miami's undefeated season, leading the team with 13 touchdown receptions this year, part of quarterback Darian Mensah's 25 touchdown passes. Mensah has had a strong season, throwing for 2,425 yards and only one interception.
The Hurricanes' schedule has been met with some scrutiny, as Notre Dame is their only ranked opponent to date. Miami's wins include victories over teams like Florida State, Clemson, and Pittsburgh, though their overtime win against Florida State was considered a scare. Toney's absence means another player will need to step up in a significant way for Miami's offense.
Notre Dame, playing at home, has also faced questions about its schedule strength, despite its 7-1 record. The Fighting Irish's lone loss came against BYU. Quarterback CJ Carr has thrown 18 touchdown passes this season, distributing the ball widely across his receivers.
This matchup was anticipated as a major College Football Playoff implication game. While Miami's offense will be challenged without Toney, the game's betting spread has been noted as potentially overestimating Notre Dame's strength and the impact of Toney's absence.