Big 12 Conference Chief Labels Notre Dame Comments Following CFP Omission as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
At a notable criticism, Big 12 chief stated that Notre Dame athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his criticisms targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Dispute
The Fighting Irish maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. The AD has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s opportunities to enter the College Football Playoff, instead pushing for the spot of the University of Miami.
“They does great things for Notre Dame, but we bring substantial football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would go out of your way to try to hurt us in this procedure,” the athletic director stated.
Miami ultimately earned the CFP berth over Notre Dame, mostly due to securing the direct matchup between the two schools. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC conducted a coordinated social media effort over several weeks demonstrating its preference for Miami.
An Egregious Rebuke
Later on Tuesday, Yormark responded to the criticism at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“I think his actions has been unacceptable,” the commissioner commented. “He is completely out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the same room, I’d say to him the same thing.”
The response is especially notable given Bevacqua’s unique position. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the interests of independent Notre Dame.
Past Context and Speculative Rumors
The commissioner further remarked the assistance the ACC offered Notre Dame during the pandemic-disrupted 2020 season, providing the Irish a complete conference schedule and a place in its championship game.
“His behavior has been egregious,” he said again. “It’s been egregious criticizing Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”
Speculation had circulated about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. However, the commissioner's strong comments on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership unlikely in the near term.
Notre Dame, who reached the CFP final last season, have indicated they will decline a postseason invitation after missing out this season.