AUSTIN (AP) - Texas quarterback Major Applewhite, the Big 12 offensive player of the year in 1999, underwent successful surgery Friday to repair a torn knee ligament.
Team surgeon Dr. Cary Windler repaired the anterior cruciate ligament in Applewhite's left knee and found no other serious damage. Applewhite suffered the injury in the second half of Texas' Cotton Bowl loss to Arkansas.
Rehab is expected to take between six and nine months, which means Applewhite, a sophomore, will miss spring practice. Freshman Chris Simms will assume the role of starter when practice begins Feb. 29.
``We expect him to have a complete and full recovery,' said Texas trainer Tom McVan.
Applewhite set UT single season records for passing yards (3,357), total offense (3,211) and touchdown passes (21) in 1999.
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