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The Independence Bowl was initially expected to be played between the Marshall Thundering Herd and No. 22-ranked Army Black Knights. However, the Thundering Herd withdrew from the game after too many of their players entered the transfer portal. They were replaced by the Lousiana Tech Bulldogs. The game will kick off on Saturday at 9:15 p.m. EST.
Independence Bowl opt-outs and injuries for Louisiana Tech and Army
Louisiana Tech injuries
Kolbe Fields
Starting linebacker Kolbe Fields is not expected to be available for Louisiana Tech for the Independence Bowl. He is out with an undisclosed injury.
Bert Hale
Left guard Bert Hale is also expected to miss the bowl game with an undisclosed injury.
Louisiana Tech opt-outs
David Blay
Trending
Starting defensive tackle David Blay will not be available for the Bulldogs in the bowl game after entering the transfer portal. He signed with the Miami Hurricanes.
Cedric Woods
Starting cornerback Cedric Woods has entered the transfer portal. However, since he has not signed with a team yet, he has elected to stay with the team for the Independence Bowl and play.
J'Dan Burnett
Starting defensive end J'Dan Burnett will not be available for the Bulldogs against Army. He is in the transfer portal.
Pig Cage
Starting safety Pig Cage will not be available for the Bulldogs after entering the transfer portal. He played 60 snaps this season.
Jack Turner
Backup quarterback Jack Turner entered the transfer portal and is not expected to play. However, he is expected to be on the sideline with the team.
Tru Edwards
Wide receiver Tru Edwards is not available after entering the transfer portal.
Army injuries
Kyle Lewis
Edge rusher Kyle Lewis is out for the season with an undisclosed injury.
Jacob Tuioti
Defensive lineman Jacob Tuioti suffered an injury in the Navy game after previously missing the AAC Championship. Although he has not been ruled out, he is not expected to play against Louisiana Tech.
Army opt-outs
Kanye Udoh
Army does not typically have many opt-outs in bowl season. Most players do not go to military schools unless they intend to stay for their entire college career. This is the case with both Army and Navy. As a result, the team only has one player in the transfer portal.
Starting running back Kanye Udoh has entered the transfer portal and will not be available. He announced that he signed with Arizona State.
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