The Game (1997)

Marshall and WVU were to play 4 games beginning in 1997. After the ‘97 game Marshall backed out. Why?

Please explain if Marshall wanted to play WVU so badly, why the Herd backed out of a four-game series in the late ’90s and then showboated on the steps of the state capitol and in the media that they want to play, but WVU wouldn’t.

I searched the web and found your answer in a WBOY (tv) press release posted on May 19, 2005. Marshall backed out because of the unfair fact that all four games were scheduled to be played at the home field of WVU. The press release was an excellent story on the new 7 game contract and a history of how the prior 4 game agreement fell apart. I have quoted a section of the article (I recommend reading the entire press release):

“Marshall and WVU faced off in 1997 in Morgantown, where the Mountaineers defeated the Thundering Herd 42-31. Following that game, Marshall officials reportedly pulled out of the four-game series because the games all were set to unfold in Morgantown.

Marcum said this series is different because the contract states if either team backs out of any game, the other team has to pay them the guaranteed compensation.

“It may be cheap for a team to back out of a series, but you would have to spend more when you have to move out of state,” Marcum said, laughing. “I don’t think anyone is going to back out of this.”

The contract also says the home team has the television coverage rights to the games. The visiting team will receive 5,000 tickets for sale to its fans.”

The Game

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