So, uh, yeah. Clayton Thorson tore his ACL, which is devastating for Northwestern. The three-year starter with NFL aspirations will have surgery in 2-3 weeks, but his status for the start of next season is now in serious doubt. A typical ACL tear requires a 9-12 month recovery, if Thorson heals quickly, he could be back before next season. That seems like a longshot, though.
Thus, Northwestern, with no warning, may have to open a season without Clayton Thorson under center for the first time in four years come next August against Purdue.