Is Jordan Burch playing today? Oregon DE's availability for Week 10 explored

Jordan Burch has not played in any of the No. 1-ranked Oregon Ducks' (8-0, 5-0 Big Ten Conference) last three games. The senior defensive end reportedly suffered a non-contact lower-body injury on Oct. 10. He returned to practice on Monday, so he could be available for Saturday's game against the Michigan Wolverines (5-3, 3-2).

Burch, who was listed as questionable for Oregon's game against Ohio State and out for its games against Purdue and Illinois, has been upgraded back to questionable. However, there has not been an indication from the coaching staff that he will be available on Saturday. A decision will likely be made closer to the start of the game.

Is Jordan Burch playing today?

Although Burch has been out with an injury for the past three games and upgraded to questionable on the injury report, his status could change depending on his performance during practices.

Oregon coach Dan Lanning talked about Burch and senior tight end Terrance Ferguson on Monday:

“Yeah, I think that we have guys that are questionable, that are going to be practicing with us this week," Lanning said. "Both those guys were available to practice today... We will keep our players' best interests in mind as we prepare for this game.”

What happened to Jordan Burch?

It is not clear what exactly happened to Burch, but he was not injured in a game. The coaching staff has not provided an update about what type of injury it is, other than saying that it was to his lower body.

When will Jordan Burch return?

It is not clear when Jordan Burch will return. However, being upgraded to questionable is a good sign for his recovery. Even if he does not play on Saturday against Michigan, he should be closer to full strength and will likely be available for Oregon's remaining games.

Burch has been a big presence when available this season. In five games, he has five sacks and seven tackles for loss. He was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week when the Ducks defeated Michigan State 31-10 on Oct. 4.