Tigers coach Les Miles announced Friday that LSU removed star defensive back Tyrann "Honey Badger" Mathieu from the football team.

The removal of the 20-year-old 2011 Heisman Trophy finalist was in response to a reported violation of team and school rules, according to Tigers coach.

"This is a very difficult day for our team," Miles said. "We lose a quality person, teammate and contributor to the program. However, with that being said, we have a standard that our players are held to and when that standard is not met, there are consequences.

"It's hard because we all love Tyrann. We will do what we can as coaches, teammates, and friends to get him on a path where he can have success. We are going to miss him."

Mathieu had 133 total tackles, 16 stops for a loss and four interceptions in 2011. An impressive punt returner, he averaged 15.6 yards on 27 returns and also returned two punts for touchdowns last season.

Honey Badger -- who will be entering his junior year -- was suspended for a game last season after reportedly testing positive for synthetic marijuana.

He returned the following week to play at Alabama in a game the LSU Tigers won on their way to the BCS title game.

College football insiders expect Mathieu to transfer schools in the light of the situation. The junior could move to a lower-division school and play immediately this season.

He could also sit out the season while transferring to a FBS school and retain his two seasons of eligibility.

Click "start" to check out pictures of Tyrann "Honey Badger" Mathieu's incredible college football career at LSU.