It has been a tough year for junior edge rusher Zach Durfee, who was expected to be the Washington Huskies‘ top pass rusher during their first season in the Big Ten and started the season off strong. He had a breakout game against Eastern Michigan, and when he’s been able to play, he’s made a big impact against the run.
However, he’s been limited by turf toe in both feet. The injury has caused him to miss four games and has limited him in two others.
Zach Durfee injury update
After the coaching staff originally expected Durfee to return during Washington’s 31-17 loss at Indiana, he was a late scratch following his pregame workout. He then missed the Huskies’ matchup with USC and is trending in the wrong direction ahead of Penn State’s White Out.
“If you look at our team going into Penn State, if you look at our injury report, knock on wood, I would say that the only player that probably isn’t going to play would be Durfee,” Fisch said during his Thursday press conference.
How long will Zach Durfee be out?
Durfee’s status is unknown, and he could return for Washington’s Senior Day against UCLA on Friday, Nov. 15. But, Fisch has said that the coaching staff has been looking into a medical redshirt for the former Sioux Falls transfer, which could put his status in doubt.
Washington edge rusher depth chart
If Durfee is unable to play, senior Voi Tunuufi could be tabbed to start alongside sophomore Isaiah Ward. Washington’s pass rush should also feature a healthy rotation of Russell Davis II, Lance Holtzclaw, Jayden Wayne, Deshawn Lynch, and Jacob Lane on the edge. Defensive coordinator Steve Belichick has also asked linebacker Alphonzo Tuputala to frequently line up as an edge rusher, and he could see significant snaps at the position against the Nittany Lions.