Why did Marshall opt out of Bowl game? Exploring potential reasons behind skipping the Independence Bowl

The Marshall Thundering Herd was selected to play in the Independence Bowl on Saturday, Dec. 28, against the No. 22-ranked Army Black Knights. It should have been a good game for the Thundering Herd to participate in but they opted out of the matchup.

The announcement came as a surprise, but it would have been challenging for Marshall to field a full roster.

Why did Marshall opt out of its bowl game?

Marshall opted out of the Independence Bowl because an overwhelming number of its players entered the transfer portal. Many players decided to leave after coach Charles Huff left the program to take the vacant job at Southern Miss. Incoming coach Tony Gibson told reporters earlier this week:

"Any time coaches leave to take other jobs, it is emotional. And kids that are 18 to 22 years old are going to make emotional decisions instead of just breathing for a day or two."

It would have been challenging for the Thundering Herd to field a competitive roster as several key players entered the transfer portal. Notably, quarterbacks Braylon Braxton, Stone Earle and Cole Pennington all entered the transfer portal, as did linebacker Jaden Yates and running back A.J. Turner.

Who will play in the Independence Bowl?

Reports initially indicated that it could be challenging to find a replacement for Marshall in the Independence Bowl. Still, it was announced on Saturday that Louisiana Tech would replace the Thundering Herd. Independence Bowl executive director Missy Setters released a statement.

"It is unfortunate that Marshall determined they won't be able to compete in the bowl in a couple of weeks. Our goal was to create the best matchup possible for our local fans and college football fans throughout the country, and we think we did that with two conference champions.

"Moving forward, we are very excited to host Louisiana Tech and are thrilled we found an opponent for Army."

Louisiana Tech athletic director Ryan Ivey also released a statement, expressing his excitement to be selected for this Bowl game.

"We are excited to accept the opportunity to play in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl against a fantastic and storied program as Army. I believe our football program is moving toward positive structure and the opportunity to play in this Bowl adds to that momentum. We are looking forward to being in Shreveport for this matchup.

Tickets for the 2024 Independence Bowl

Tickets for the Independence Bowl can be purchased on the Independence Bowl website. Prices range from $20 to $70.