Heisman Finalists 2011: LSU's Tyrann Mathieu 2011 Highlight Video

Only one defensive player in the history of college football has ever won the Heisman trophy. And it's not too often that a defensive player even becomes a finalist for the award.

So, when LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu was named a finalist along with four offensive juggernauts, you knew he had to be a special player.

Mathieu wasn't just special this season for the Tigers. He was a huge reason for their success. LSU couldn't have gone undefeated this season and secure a spot in the national championship without him.

Mathieu is nicknamed the "Honey Badger" because he is extremely aggressive and not afraid to take on bigger opponents even with his small 5'8", 175-pound frame. 

This season he led the team in tackles with 71, had 1.5 sacks and two interceptions. But it wasn't really those plays that made the difference and the reason he was named a Heisman finalist.

It's the forced fumbles and the two fumble returns he returned for a touchdown in big games. It was the punt returns for the touchdowns in back-to-back weeks that lifted his team. In both the Arkansas and Georgia games, the Tigers came out very sluggish and didn't wake up until Mathieu made a play.

He has been a difference maker for the Tigers all season long for this team.

There has only been one defensive player to win the Heisman trophy. But if there will ever be a second, it deserves to be No.7 from LSU.

Randy Chambers is a B/R Featured Columnist that covers College Football and the NFL. You can contact him @Randy_Chambers or [e-mail]