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.
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ESPN reported Spears saying, “In good conscience, we could not put out 41 student-athletes on to that field.