What Conference Is Marshall Football In? (2025 Update)

By Sarah Miller · January 18, 2031

Marshall Football competes in the Sun Belt Conference, having joined the league in 2022 after transitioning from Conference USA.

Overview of Marshall Football's Conference Affiliation

Marshall University's football team, known as the Thundering Herd, currently competes in the Sun Belt Conference (SBC). The move to the Sun Belt marked a significant shift in the program's trajectory, aligning the team with a growing and competitive Group of Five conference that emphasizes regional rivalries and national exposure.

Key Reasons for Conference Realignment

Geographic alignment with other Sun Belt members
Increased stability compared to Conference USA
Better television exposure through ESPN networks
Enhanced recruiting opportunities across the Southeast
Stronger non-conference scheduling flexibility

History of Marshall Football Conferences

Marshall's conference journey reflects broader trends in NCAA realignment. Once a dominant force in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), the program has shifted multiple times to maintain competitiveness and visibility.

Timeline of Conference Changes

1997–2004: Mid-American Conference (MAC)
2005–2021: Conference USA (C-USA)
2022–Present: Sun Belt Conference (East Division)

Season	Conference	Division	Conference Record	Overall Record	Bowl Result
2020	Conference USA	East	6–1	8–3	Won Gasparilla Bowl
2021	Conference USA	East	7–1	10–3	Lost in C-USA Championship
2022	Sun Belt	East	7–1	9–4	Won Sun Belt Championship
2023	Sun Belt	East	6–2	10–4	Lost in Boca Raton Bowl
2024 (Projected)	Sun Belt	East	N/A	N/A	N/A

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows Marshall maintained strong performance post-transition, winning the Sun Belt title in their inaugural 2022 season. Their 7–1 conference record in both 2021 (C-USA) and 2022 (Sun Belt) highlights consistency despite the change in competition level.

Current Standing in the Sun Belt Conference

As a member of the Sun Belt East Division, Marshall competes against teams such as Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina, Georgia Southern, and Troy. The Sun Belt is recognized for its rising national profile, particularly in recent years due to strong bowl performances and improved recruiting.

Benefits of Sun Belt Membership

Regional travel reduces costs and player fatigue
Competitive parity fosters close games and fan engagement
ESPN-controlled media rights ensure consistent TV coverage
Opportunities to play high-profile non-conference opponents
Access to expanded postseason options under new NCAA format

Frequently Asked Questions About Marshall Football's Conference

What conference is Marshall football in right now?

As of 2025, Marshall football competes in the Sun Belt Conference, specifically within the East Division.

When did Marshall join the Sun Belt Conference?

Marshall officially joined the Sun Belt Conference on July 1, 2022, moving from Conference USA.

Why did Marshall leave Conference USA?

Marshall left Conference USA due to instability caused by mass departures, lack of geographic cohesion, and limited media exposure. The Sun Belt offered better alignment and growth potential.

Does Marshall football have any conference championships in the Sun Belt?

Yes, Marshall won the Sun Belt Conference Championship in 2022, defeating Toledo in the title game after going undefeated in conference play.

Who are Marshall's main rivals in the Sun Belt Conference?

While traditional rivalries are still developing, Marshall has built competitive matchups with Appalachian State and Western Kentucky. Regional proximity may foster new rivalries with Georgia Southern and Old Dominion.