Penn State running back Stephfon Green will miss spring practice after undergoing surgery on his right ankle Tuesday morning.
The redshirt freshman dislocated his right ankle during the fourth quarter of the Rose Bowl, according to a statement released by the Penn State sports information department.
"Rehabilitation will take approximately 3-4 months, according to [Dr. Wayne] Sebastianelli," the statement said. "And will keep Green out of spring practice."
The injury was more serious than originally estimated and required
surgery according to Sebastianelli, Penn State's Director of Athletic Medicine.
Green missed the final five minutes against USC after replacing starting running back Evan Royster, who injured his left knee during the first quarter and was sidelined for the rest of the game.
Green led the Lions in rushing yards and receptions during the Rose Bowl. He ran 10 times for 57 yards and caught five passes for 67 yards against the Trojans. He finished the day with 124 all-purpose yards.
On the season, Green was third on the team in all-purpose yards with 846 and four touchdowns. He averaged 5.5 yards per carry and 17.9 yards per catch while filling the role of a quick, shifty change-of-pace back.
Green suffered a similar injury during his senior year of high school, causing him to miss most of that season. Green said Penn State's continued recruiting interest during his rehabilitation was one of the reasons why he committed to play for the Nittany Lions.
Injured but not out
The press release added Royster and offensive tackle Dennis Landolt, who were both injured against USC, won't be held out of spring practice.
