MKRob Sports

The University of South Florida suffered a major blow after it learned that starting quarterback Matt Grothe will be sidelined for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee.

Grothe, 23, stepped in for the starting job in 2006, his redshirt-freshman season.

Regarded for his astounding durability, Grothe started 41 straight games since his freshman year.

The presence of the senior quarterback, the Bulls emotional leader, will be missed when South Florida plays in Tallahassee for its first-ever clash against Florida State.

The latest development could also mean the end of his career, as the NCAA is unlikely to grant a sixth year to Grothe.

Grothe finished with 512 yards on 43-of-59 passes with five TDs and two interceptions this season.

He leads the Big East with 10,875 total yards throughout his career.

Redshirt freshman B.J. Daniles is expected to step up and fill-in the gap.

Fellow redshirt freshman Evan Landi will also be tabbed for some playing time.

Grothe sustained the injury during Saturday’s 59-0 win over Charleston Southern.