Big 12 Conference Chief Labels Notre Dame Comments Following CFP Snub as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’
During a notable criticism, Big 12 Conference commissioner declared that Notre Dame athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his comments about the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The Source of the Controversy
The Fighting Irish maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. The AD has claimed 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.
“The ACC do great things for Notre Dame, but we provide substantial football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to hurt us in this procedure,” Bevacqua stated.
Miami ultimately secured the CFP spot over Notre Dame, primarily due to securing the direct matchup between the two teams. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC conducted a coordinated social media campaign over several weeks showing its preference for Miami.
A Strong Response
Subsequently on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner spoke about the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“In my view his behavior has been egregious,” Yormark commented. “He is completely out of bounds in his approach and if he was in the same room, I’d say to him the same thing.”
The response is particularly significant given Bevacqua’s unique standing. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of independent Notre Dame.
Past Context and Speculative Rumors
The commissioner also pointed out the lifeline the ACC gave Notre Dame in the Covid-affected 2020 season, giving the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a place in its title game.
“His behavior has been unacceptable,” he reiterated. “It’s been egregious attacking Jim Phillips, when they helped Notre Dame during Covid...”
Rumors had spread about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. However, the commissioner's strong reprimand on Tuesday appear to make such a move unlikely in the near term.
Notre Dame, who made the CFP final last season, have stated they will decline a postseason invitation after missing out this season.
