Big 12 Chief Labels Notre Dame Comments Following CFP Omission as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
At a strong statement, Big 12 chief stated that Notre Dame's AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for public remarks concerning the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Dispute
The Fighting Irish has a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. The AD has contended that the ACC actively damaged Notre Dame’s opportunities to make the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to campaigning for the inclusion of the University of Miami.
“They does great things for Notre Dame, but we offer tremendous football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to undermine us in this selection,” Bevacqua said.
Miami eventually received the CFP spot over Notre Dame, mostly due to winning the head-to-head matchup between the two schools. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC engaged in a targeted social media campaign over several weeks indicating its support for Miami.
A Strong Response
Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner spoke about the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“My opinion is that his behavior has been out of line,” Yormark commented. “He is totally out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the room, I’d say to him the same thing.”
This public criticism is especially notable given Bevacqua’s unique role. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of football independent Notre Dame.
Historical Support and Future Moves
The commissioner further remarked the support the ACC provided Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full ACC schedule and a berth in its title game.
“His behavior has been egregious,” he reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable going after Jim Phillips, when they saved Notre Dame during Covid...”
Talk had spread about Notre Dame potentially splitting with the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. However, Yormark's strong reprimand on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership unlikely in the immediate future.
Notre Dame, who made the CFP championship game last season, have stated they will decline a postseason invitation after failing to qualify this year.
