It seems more common place when a power school is playing a much lesser school. If UConn is playing a p4 I'd expect that they have some players sit out as UConn is still rebuilding their reputation.
Wouldn't be surprised if Bell is a 3rd round pick. Is that early enough to sit out? What about a team taking a flyer on a 26 year old that just had his best season? 7th or UDFA? Did Parham do enough to get drafted? Who else? Not necessarily asking you
@businesslawyer just adding to the discussion.
I think those are players that have taken pride in their time at UConn and want to play in a bowl game and show out against good competition.