Chandler Morris injury update: New development emerges on Virginia QB vs. Duke

After being upgraded to probable on Friday, Virginia quarterback Chandler Morris passed concussion protocol. He’s now expected to play in Week 12 against Duke barring a setback, per On3’s Pete Nakos.

Morris left the Cavaliers’ 16-9 loss to Wake Forest last week in the second quarter after absorbing a hit to the head. He was taken to the locker room, where he was ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Before leaving the game, Morris completed 3-of-his-6 pass attempts for 19 yards. He also recorded one rush for six yards. Backup signal-caller Daniel Kaelin replaced Morris after he left the game.

In the loss, Kaelin completed 18-of-his-28 pass attempts for 145 yards. He didn’t throw a touchdown or an interception. It loss was the Cavaliers’ first during conference play. Virginia is now 8-2 overall and 5-1 against ACC foes.

Morris has largely been responsible for Virginia’s success this season. He transferred to UVA ahead of the 2025 campaign after spending last season at North Texas.

Morris boasts 2,088 passing yards and 12 touchdowns this season, compared to just five interceptions. Morris’ arm is far from his only threat. He’s also tallied 214 yards and four TDs with his legs this season. Earlier this week, Virginia head coach evaluated Daniel Kaelin’s performance in Morris’ absence.

 “I thought he had probably two plays where he probably wants back – other than that, he did his job,” Elliot said. “I think we put him in a tough spot down there on the goal line. He’ll learn.

“… “We had a shot to go win it, so he did what he needed to do to get us in those positions – considering the circumstances. … Thought he made some good throws. I thought he got the ball to the guys he was supposed to get the ball tom converted some first downs, but the three turnovers, I think, is ultimately what got us. And I think he’ll learn.”

Whoever is running Virginia’s offense on Saturday has a chance to produce a standout showing. Duke’s defense is allowing 268.6 passing yards per game this season, the fourth-most in the ACC.

In UConn’s 37-34 win over the Blue Devils last week, Huskies quarterback Joe Fagnano notched 311 passing yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception. Virginia will look to follow in UConn’s footsteps and dominate Duke’s defense.

Virginia and Duke will clash at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. The game will air live on ESPN2.

— On3’s Grant Grubbs contributed to this article.