How Much Did Big 12 Fine Iowa State, Kansas State for Opting Out of CFB Bowl Games?

Iowa State and Kansas State are opting out of bowl game eligibility after head coaching turnover following the regular season.

The Big 12 announced Sunday that both programs would be levied a $500,000 "institutional fine" for not participating.

"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 conference said in a statement.

Both the Wildcats and Cyclones made head coaching changes last week.

Iowa State hired Washington State coach Jimmy Rogers shortly after former head coach Matt Campbell left for Penn State.

Kansas State meanwhile hired Texas A&M offensive coordinator Collin Klein shortly after former head coach Chris Klieman announced his retirement.

The Wildcats said when announcing Klein's hiring that he would continue working with Texas A&M during the Aggies' postseason.

Both programs cited player availability in their statements explaining their respective choices to reject their bowl bids.

Kansas State athletics director Gene Taylor said in a statement the decision had been made after speaking with players and with Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark.

"This decision was not taken lightly, but with our coaching staff transition and several uncertainties regarding player availability, I felt it was not in our best interest to try to field a team that was not representative of Kansas State University," Taylor said.

Iowa State did not mention head coaching turnover in the program's own statement, which instead said players voted Sunday morning not to accept the bowl bid "due to the lack of healthy players to safely practice and play."

Athletics director Jamie Pollard said in a statement that "the administrative staff and coaches respect and support the players decision."

Kansas State finished the season without key players including star linebacker Austin Romaine, wide receiver Jayce Brown and left tackle George Fitzpatrick.

The Cyclones also lost multiple starters to season-ending injuries this fall, including tight end Gabe Burkle, linebacker Will McLaughlin and cornerbacks Jontez Williams and Jeremiah Cooper.

Kansas State will end the 2025 season with a 6-6 record capped of by a win over Colorado, while Iowa State finished 8-4 after a season-finale road win over Oklahoma State.