Oregon could be without one of its star defenders on Saturday.
According to a report from Pete Thamel of ESPN, Burch's status against Ohio State "is in flux" after he suffered a lower-body injury in practice on Thursday. While Burch's specific injury and its severity remain unknown, Thamel reported that the 6-foot-6, 295-pound defensive end "was helped from the field and appeared to be in considerable pain."
In five appearances this season, Burch paces Oregon's defense with five sacks and seven tackles for loss. He has also recorded four pass breakups and recovered one fumble.
Both Ohio State head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly said Burch had their attention this week as the Buckeyes prepared for the top-three showdown in Eugene.
"Burch is very, very good," Day said. "He's very athletic and strong. He's a good pass rusher and good against the run."
Kelly added, "His athletic ability for such a big player. You know, he's listed at 6-foot-6, 295, but he plays defensive end. Most guys that big are interior defensive linemen. He's a really athletic guy. ... You got to know where he is on every play. He's one of those guys that can disrupt a football game."
If Burch is unable to play on Saturday, Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuitoti will fill his place in a joint effort. The sophomore outside linebackers have combined for 4.5 sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss in the Ducks' first five games of 2024.
