ESPN provides Corey Flagg injury update during Clemson-Miami game

Clemson leads Miami 21-0 in the first half of Saturday’s ACC contest, and the news has gone from bad to worse for the Hurricanes following a Corey Flagg injury update from the TV broadcast crew.

ESPN sideline reporter Kris Budden reported from the sidelines that Flagg has headed to the locker room.

“Defensive injury for Miami to update you on,” Budden said. “Linebacker Corey Flagg is questionable with a lower-body injury, he is currently in the locker room.”

Flagg is the team’s leading tackler in 2021, so he’s a significant loss for the Miami defense if he cannot return.

In nine games this season Flagg has recorded 51 tackles, 9.5 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, a quarterback hurry and a pass breakup. He’s been a huge contributor on a defense that has certainly had its struggles.

Miami is still fighting for bowl eligibility at 5-5, but the start against Clemson on the road will require a serious turnaround if the Hurricanes plan to get there this week.

If not, the regular season finale will be a home date with Pittsburgh.

Corey Flagg injury only the latest for ‘Canes

Injuries have certainly hampered Miami during coach Mario Cristobal‘s first season in charge of the program. The Corey Flagg injury is yet another significant one, all while the Hurricanes are still dealing with an injury to starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke.

Miami started Jacurri Brown at quarterback against the Tigers, with Van Dyke sidelined since he made a brief return against Florida State on Nov. 5 and reinjured his shoulder.

Then there’s the off-field drama.

Cristobal made headlines for how he answered a question about parents voicing their frustrations on social media.

“A parent is very free and welcome to come pick up their son if they’re not happy with their playing time at the University of Miami,” Cristobal said. “I guess that’s my philosophy.”