Big 12 Commissioner Calls Notre Dame Comments Following CFP Omission as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
At a strong statement, Big 12 Conference commissioner stated that Notre Dame's athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for recent comments targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Controversy
The Fighting Irish maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s chances to enter the College Football Playoff, instead advocating for the spot of the University of Miami.
“They do wonderful things for Notre Dame, but we provide tremendous football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to damage us in this process,” the athletic director remarked.
Miami eventually secured the CFP spot over Notre Dame, primarily due to securing the head-to-head contest between the two teams. Notre Dame's AD additionally stated that the ACC ran a targeted social media push over multiple weeks indicating its preference for Miami.
A Strong Rebuke
Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner responded to the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“My opinion is that his conduct has been egregious,” the commissioner stated. “He is totally out of bounds in his approach and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.”
This public pushback is particularly notable given Bevacqua’s unique position. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the interests of independent Notre Dame.
Past Context and Speculative Moves
The commissioner further pointed out the assistance the ACC provided Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full ACC schedule and a place in its title game.
“His behavior has been unacceptable,” Yormark said again. “It’s been egregious going after Jim Phillips, when they saved Notre Dame during Covid...”
Rumors had circulated about Notre Dame potentially splitting with the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public reprimand on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership less likely in the near term.
The Irish, who made the CFP championship game last season, have stated they plan to decline a postseason invitation after failing to qualify this season.
