Revisiting Tyrann Mathieu’s Electrifying but Turbulent LSU Career
Tyrann Mathieu, known widely as the “Honey Badger”, left an unforgettable mark during his two-year stint at LSU, leaving fans wondering what could’ve been, had his college journey not taken a sudden turn.
A Star is Born in Baton Rouge
A standout at St. Augustine High in New Orleans, Mathieu came to LSU in 2010 as part of their revered recruiting class. Despite standing just 5’9″, his instincts, speed, and physicality earned him immediate playing time under coach Les Miles, often in nickelback duty. He closed his freshman year with 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, two interceptions, seven pass deflections, and a school-record five forced fumbles. His performance in the Cotton Bowl, featuring two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, an interception, and a sack, won him the Defensive MVP honor.
Sophomore Surge & National Recognition
In 2011, Mathieu took his game to another level. Starting every game, he tallied 76 tackles, nine pass deflections, six forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries (including two returned for touchdowns), and two interceptions. His explosiveness shone on special teams too, with two punt return TDs. His dominant run earned him the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation’s top defender, consensus All-American honors, and a fifth-place finish in Heisman Trophy voting.
Off-Field Struggles & Dismissal
Mathieu’s off-field issues emerged in 2012. Suspended one game mid-season for violating LSU’s drug policy, his situation intensified when he failed multiple drug tests before the 2012 season. Coach Miles dismissed Mathieu from the team three weeks before kickoff, citing rule violations.
Mathieu initially entered rehab in Houston and returned to LSU as a student, hoping for a football comeback. However, a later arrest for marijuana possession ended any hopes of reinstatement.
Turning Pro After Two Seasons
In November 2012, Mathieu decided to enter the NFL Draft, choosing to move forward rather than return for his final year at LSU. Despite the off-field challenges that clouded his college exit, his undeniable talent and playmaking ability caught the eye of NFL scouts. The Arizona Cardinals took a chance on him, selecting him with the 69th overall pick in the third round of the 2013 draft.
College Stats Summary:
2010 (Freshman): 13 games, 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 2 INTs, 5 forced fumbles, 7 pass breakups.
2011 (Sophomore): 13 games, 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 9 pass breakups, 2 punt-return.
In just two seasons, Mathieu racked up 133 tackles, 6 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, 16 pass breakups, and a handful of high-impact plays that forged his reputation as college football’s most dynamic ballhawk.
Legacy in Baton Rouge
Mathieu’s LSU career is a study in contrasts: unmatched on-field brilliance shadowed by personal missteps. Though brief, his college tenure left a legacy that few defensive backs can match, cementing his place among LSU’s greatest talents ever to don the Tiger purple and gold.