Iowa State and Kansas State faced a significant financial penalty from the Big 12 Conference after both schools declined bowl invitations. Each institution has been fined $500,000 due to their decisions, which came in the wake of coaching changes.
On December 3, 2023, the Big 12 announced the fines, citing the need to uphold its contractual commitments to bowl partners. The conference acknowledged the timing of the coaching transitions but emphasized its responsibilities. “While the Conference acknowledges the difficult timing around coaching changes, the Big 12 is responsible for fulfilling its contractual obligations to its bowl partners,” the statement read.
Both teams were bowl eligible this season, with Iowa State finishing the regular season with an 8-4 record and Kansas State ending at 6-6. Iowa State’s head coach, Matt Campbell, recently signed an eight-year deal to lead Penn State, while Kansas State’s coach, Chris Klieman, announced his retirement.
In response to these transitions, Iowa State held a team meeting where players voted not to participate in a bowl game, citing “the lack of healthy players to safely practice and play.” Iowa State’s athletic director, Jamie Pollard, expressed support for the decision, stating, “Our student-athletes have had an incredible season and we are grateful for their leadership as we worked through this process with them today.”
Kansas State’s athletic director, Gene Taylor, also shared insights into the decision-making process. “Following our recent coaching change and conversations with our player leadership and Commissioner Yormark, I determined that we will not accept a bowl invitation,” he noted. He added that the decision was made to ensure the team fielded was representative of Kansas State University, especially after a season that saw them recover from a 2-4 start to qualify for a bowl.
In the context of this situation, both programs have shown resilience despite the challenges. The Alamo Bowl, Pop-Tarts Bowl, Texas Bowl, Liberty Bowl, Independence Bowl, and an ESPN Events bowl game were set to select teams from the Big 12 this season, highlighting the competitive landscape of collegiate football.
The decisions made by Iowa State and Kansas State illustrate the complexities involved in college athletics, particularly during periods of transition. As both programs move forward with new coaching leadership, they will aim to build upon their recent successes while navigating the challenges of player health and team dynamics.
