Big 12 Conference Chief Labels Notre Dame Comments After CFP Snub as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
During a notable criticism, Big 12 chief stated that Notre Dame's AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for public criticisms targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Controversy
The Fighting Irish maintains a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a full member in all other sports. Bevacqua has argued that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s opportunities to enter the College Football Playoff, instead campaigning for the inclusion of the University of Miami.
“They do wonderful things for Notre Dame, but we bring tremendous 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,” Bevacqua remarked.
Miami eventually earned the CFP invitation over Notre Dame, largely due to securing the head-to-head meeting between the two teams. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC conducted a targeted social media campaign over several weeks showing its preference for Miami.
An Egregious Rebuke
Subsequently on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner spoke about the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“My opinion is that his actions has been unacceptable,” the commissioner commented. “He is totally out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.”
The criticism is particularly notable given Bevacqua’s prominent standing. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the interests of football independent Notre Dame.
Past Context and Speculative Rumors
Yormark also remarked the lifeline the ACC offered Notre Dame during the pandemic-disrupted 2020 season, providing the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a place in its title game.
“It has been egregious,” Yormark reiterated. “It’s been egregious criticizing the ACC commissioner, when they helped Notre Dame during Covid...”
Talk had circulated about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. Yet, the commissioner's public comments on Tuesday appear to make such a partnership less likely in the near term.
The Irish, who reached the CFP championship game last season, have indicated they are declining a bowl game after missing out this season.
