Hurricanes RB Gore out for season with torn ACL

Updated: October 3, 2003, 7:01 PM ET

MIAMI - For the second time in as many years, the Miami Hurricanes have lost talented running back Frank Gore for the season to a torn ACL.

Gore, who had rushed for 468 yards and four touchdowns on 89 carries, suffered a tear of his left ACL on a 12-yard run in the first quarter of the second-ranked Hurricanes' 22-20 comeback victory over West Virginia on Thursday night.

Miami team physician Dr. John Uribe will perform season-ending surgery after Gore undergoes several weeks of treatment to reduce swelling in the knee.

"We are extremely disappointed with Frank's diagnosis, but we know that with his determination and work ethic he will be back," Miami coach Larry Coker said.

Senior Jarrett Payton, son of the late NFL Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, is expected to start in Gore's place for the Hurricanes' crucial game at Florida State on October 11.

Gore ran for 562 yards on just 62 carries as a backup to Clinton Portis as a freshman in 2001 before tearing the ACL and meniscus in his right knee during spring practice last year, causing him to miss the season.

Willis McGahee took his place and became a Heisman Trophy candidate also before tearing his ACL.

This story is from ESPN.com's automated news wire. Wire index

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