Tampa, FL (Sports Network) - The South Florida football program has announced the dismissal of senior running back Mike Ford for a violation of team rules.

Ford ran for 477 yards and six touchdowns on 91 carries last year for the Bulls and was named MVP of the International Bowl after rushing for 207 yards and a score in a 27-3 win over Northern Illinois.

"I am disappointed for Mike more than anything else," said USF head coach Skip Holtz. "I hope that he learns some important life lessons from this experience at USF. He needs to realize that he can respond to this adversity in a positive way and still fulfill many of his goals as a person, student and football player."

In three seasons at South Florida, Ford amassed 1,502 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns.

"To all of my family, friends and fans, I made a mistake that I really, really regret and I apologize for that," said Ford. "I am responsible for my own actions. Please forgive me for I am only human. This will not be the last of Mike Ford. I will continue my dream, and I will graduate."