So.....

BREAKING: Max Bullough has been suspended for the remainder of the season for a violation of team rules, per MSU. — State News Sports (@thesnews_sports) December 26, 2013

In a statement, Mark Dantonio said: "It is extremely disappointing for all parties involved." So tough to lose a senior leader this way. — Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis) December 26, 2013

Dantonio: "Max will forever remain a Spartan and valued member in this team’s achievements." — Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis) December 26, 2013

The department was clear that it has no further comment on the issue. — Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis) December 26, 2013

Just confirmed Max Bullough did not make the trip with the team. — Dan Kilbridge (@MSUDanK) December 26, 2013

That's the end of his career.

Bullough got in trouble once before, on spring break in 2011 before he was a starter, but has gone on to be a captain, an All-B1G player and an Academic All-American. For a senior captain with that track record to get suspended before the Rose Bowl, his final game (and with that lineage), I have no idea what could have happened. We may find out soon, given how serious this apparently is. There is a press conference Thursday. Perhaps we will learn more.

The MSU defense loses its leader, a guy who was going to be in on a lot of tackles against Stanford's power running game.

Who replaces Bullough? Do you go with senior Kyler Elsworth, a guy we, surprisingly, haven't seen much of this year? Or do you go with a guy we'll see next year, like Darien Harris or Ed Davis?

Whatever it is, it's an unfortunate end to a great career. We don't know what the violation is, but Mark Dantonio has made a clear point about no player being bigger than the team or the program.

UPDATE:

Should've been clearer. All that shows up for Max Bullough in E.L. and Ingham County courts is one harmless parking ticket. — Tony Paul (@TonyPaul1984) December 26, 2013

Also, let's please not speculate.