Anthonie Knapp from Notre Dame will miss the upcoming College Football Playoff championship game against Ohio State due to an ankle injury. However, head coach Marcus Freeman confirmed on Sunday that Rocco Spindler is expected to participate in the game.
On the other hand, Ohio State’s Denzel Burke, who has been nursing an “upper extremity issue” as indicated by head coach Ryan Day, will be ready to play against the Fighting Irish in Atlanta on January 20. Throughout the season, Notre Dame has faced a series of injuries as well as a flu outbreak last week, yet they have managed to secure an impressive 13-game winning streak, placing themselves within striking distance of their first national title since 1988.
With an aim to capture their first national championship since 2014, Day mentioned that the Buckeyes planned ahead for the possibility of an extended season. He emphasized their proactive approach to roster management and game pace with an eye on mitigating injury risks. “We assessed various metrics concerning how many games we would be playing, and recognized that this would sometimes lead to a battle of attrition,” Day stated. He underlined the importance of depth in managing the roster effectively, along with their practice methods to ensure they remain competitive as the season draws to a close.
Knapp and Spindler suffered injuries during the second quarter of the semifinal victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl last Thursday. Freeman noted that Jeremiyah Love, who has tallied over 1,000 rushing yards this season and scored a touchdown against Penn State despite nursing a sore knee, is anticipated to be fully recovered. Additionally, wide receiver Beaux Collins, who is coping with a calf strain, is working hard to be ready for the game.
The Irish’s injury woes began during preseason training with offensive lineman Charles Jagusah sidelined by a pectoral injury. Both offensive and defensive lineman Jordan Botelho also faced season-ending injuries during a game against Purdue back in September. Furthermore, cornerback Benjamin Morrison, who is projected as a first-round pick in the NFL draft, was sidelined with a hip injury sustained against Stanford in October, and defensive lineman Rylie Mills suffered a significant knee injury in the first playoff game against Indiana.
Knapp’s high ankle sprain from the game against Penn State leaves Freeman contemplating adjustments to the offensive line for the championship match. “We have a week to prepare and identify the right lineup for this upcoming game,” he remarked, “and we will see where we land in the next couple of days.”
Jagusah made his return to the field against Penn State, filling in for Spindler, and he could play either guard or tackle in the championship. Freeman praised Jagusah for his commendable performance emphasizing the effective preparation he received from coach Joe Rudolph, which led to his impressive execution when called upon.
For Ohio State’s Burke, who has been a cornerstone at cornerback for four years, his playing time was limited to 28 snaps during the Cotton Bowl against Texas, handing the baton to Jermaine Mathews Jr. in the second half. Day clarified that Burke’s removal from the game was a joint decision made with input from both the player and medical personnel.
Day also expressed confidence in Mathews, highlighting his readiness and the trust he has earned from his teammates and coaching staff. “He graded out as a champion,” Day said, praising Mathews’ competitive spirit and his affinity for teamwork, underscoring his dedication to his role as a Buckeye player.
