Sun Belt fined Marshall Thundering Herd $100,000 for opting out of December's Independence Bowl.
Louisiana Tech replaced Marshall against Army, but they lost 27-6.
"While the conference recognizes the medical model and best practice guidance Marshall is following and their fundamental concern for the health and safety of remaining eligible student-athletes to compete in a safe and feasible manner, the nature and timing of this conference in the Sun Belt "This decision is detrimental to the Sun Belt Conference and its membership, Army, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl, USATF and ESPN," said a statement. "
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A full view of a Marshall Thunder helmet worn by the Marshall Thunder during the first quarter against the Connecticut Huskies at the Myrtle Beach Bowl at Brooks Stadium. (David Yezer-USA TODAY Sports)
Despite the fine, Marshall athletic director Christian Spears said he stands by his decision to opt out of the game.
"We cannot in good conscience allow 41 student-athletes to compete on this field. Again, the health and safety of our student-athletes will always be our priority," Spears said. "But that doesn't take away the fact that a sincere and formal apology is due."
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Marshall Thunder Pack head coach Charles Huff watches the first half of the North Carolina Wolfpack's game at Carter-Finley Stadium. (Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports)
Marshall went 10-3 in the regular season and won its final seven games en route to the Sun Belt Championship.
Instead of continuing on to the Army Bowl, head coach Charles Huff left Marshall because he was nowhere near a contract extension with the school.
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Marshall Thunder head coach Charles Huff during the second quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium. (Joseph Maiorana - Image)
Huff then left Marshall to become the head coach at the University of Southern Mississippi. More than 25 players jumped into the transfer portal over his departure, resulting in Martial withdrawing from the competition.
Marshall hired NC State offensive coordinator Tony Gibson as their new head coach.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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