Marshall’s decision to opt out of the 2024 Independence Bowl has left a gap in this year’s bowl lineup. The Independence Bowl, typically hosted in Shreveport, Louisiana, has been a post-season fixture since 1976. The bowl usually features teams from Conference USA, the American Athletic Conference, or others from the Group of Five schools. With Marshall declining the invitation, speculation has arisen as to which team will step in to take their place.
### Possible Replacements
One strong contender to replace Marshall is **Florida Atlantic University (FAU)**. As a fellow Conference USA member, FAU has shown consistent performance this season and could potentially take the opportunity. FAU has been competitive in recent years and, given the tight-knit nature of Conference USA, could likely meet the criteria set by the Independence Bowl committee.
Another likely candidate is **Middle Tennessee State University**. With a strong overall record and a good showing in the conference standings, they might be a viable replacement for Marshall. Middle Tennessee’s competitive edge could earn them a ticket to Shreveport, especially if other bowl-eligible teams from Conference USA are unavailable or already booked elsewhere.
### The Impact of the Decision
Marshall’s withdrawal from the Independence Bowl has raised questions about the scheduling and criteria for bowl invitations. For smaller conferences, bowl slots are often seen as rewards for teams that finish strong in regular-season play, especially those that might not have access to New Year’s Six games or major bowls. However, decisions like this one highlight the complexities teams face, including travel commitments, player health, and financial considerations.
### 2024 Bowl Forecasts
Looking ahead to the rest of the 2024 bowl season, the picture is already taking shape. Teams like **Liberty**, **Tulane**, and **Western Kentucky** are expected to feature prominently in bowl games. **Liberty**, coming off a strong season, is especially likely to secure a slot in a high-profile bowl, perhaps even in the New Year’s Six category.
As for other games like the **College Football Playoff** and major bowls, the race will remain tight. **Georgia** and **Michigan** continue to be front-runners, with other programs like **Ohio State** and **Florida State** keeping hopes high for playoff berths.
Ultimately, the 2024 bowl season promises exciting matchups and potential surprises, especially with shifting team dynamics and unexpected withdrawals like Marshall’s.