Iowa State University and Kansas State University have both been fined $500,000 by the Big 12 Conference for declining bowl game invitations. This decision follows significant coaching changes within both programs this week. The announcement was made by the Big 12 on December 10, 2023.
The Big 12 Conference stated, “While the Conference acknowledges the difficult timing around coaching changes, the Big 12 is responsible for fulfilling its contractual obligations to its bowl partners.” Both schools had qualified for bowl games this season, with Iowa State finishing at 8-4 and Kansas State at 6-6.
Coaching transitions significantly influenced the decisions made by both teams. Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell, who had led the team since 2016, accepted an eight-year contract to coach at Penn State. Following Campbell’s departure, Iowa State hired Jimmy Rogers, previously the head coach at Washington State, to a six-year deal.
On the other hand, Kansas State’s head coach Chris Klieman announced his retirement. The Wildcats quickly appointed Collin Klein, the offensive coordinator from Texas A&M, as their new head coach.
The Cyclones held a team meeting to discuss their participation in a bowl game. Ultimately, they voted not to proceed, citing “the lack of healthy players to safely practice and play.” Iowa State athletic director Jamie Pollard expressed support for the players’ 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 echoed similar sentiments regarding the Wildcats’ decision. He remarked, “Following our recent coaching change and conversations with our player leadership and Commissioner Yormark, I determined that we will not accept a bowl invitation this afternoon.” Taylor emphasized the importance of maintaining team integrity, stating, “This decision was not taken lightly… I felt it was not in our best interest to try to field a team that was not representative of Kansas State University.”
Both teams were among ten Big 12 programs eligible for bowl games this year, with opportunities in contests such as the Alamo Bowl, Pop-Tarts Bowl, Texas Bowl, Liberty Bowl, and Independence Bowl. The fines imposed on Iowa State and Kansas State highlight the challenges faced by athletic programs during periods of transition.
As the situation unfolds, the repercussions of these decisions may resonate throughout the conference, raising questions about how coaching changes impact not only team performance but also contractual obligations to bowl games.
