On Friday, Jan. 17, the Sun Belt Conference fined Marshall University $100,000 for opting out of the Independence Bowl.
The Thundering Herd was originally slated to play Army at the 2024 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl on Dec. 28 in Shreveport, Louisiana, but withdrew less than two weeks before game day.
The withdrawal, described as “detrimental” by the conference, was due to a coaching/staff change and much of the roster entering the transfer portal.
Marshall Athletic Director Christian Spears said the school accepted the fine, and the decision to opt out was in the best interests.
ESPN reported Spears saying, “In good conscience, we could not put out 41 student-athletes on to that field. And again, we are always going to prioritize the health and safety of our student-athletes, but that doesn’t take away the fact that a sincere and formal apology is due.”
Spears expressed Marshall’s appreciation of being in the Sun Belt but hopes for rule changes to prevent institutions from being subjected to sudden, disruptive shifts in staffing and player rosters.
In a Friday statement, the Sun Belt said that “while it acknowledges the medical model and best practice guidance adhered to by Marshall as well as their fundamental concern for health and safety of the remaining eligible student-athletes to compete in a safe and viable manner, the nature and timing of this decision was detrimental to the Sun Belt Conference and its membership, to Army, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl, the American Athletic Conference and ESPN.”
The statement further noted that the conference considers the matter concluded and will not be offering any additional comments.
Holly Belmont can be contacted at [email protected]
