Big 12 Conference Commissioner Labels Notre Dame Remarks Following CFP Omission as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’
During a notable criticism, Big 12 Conference commissioner stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for recent criticisms concerning 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 hurt Notre Dame’s chances to enter the College Football Playoff, instead pushing for the selection of the University of Miami.
“They does great things for Notre Dame, but we bring significant football value to the ACC, and we didn’t understand why you would go out of your way to try to damage us in this process,” the athletic director remarked.
The Hurricanes eventually secured the CFP berth over Notre Dame, primarily due to securing the head-to-head matchup between the two schools. Notre Dame's AD additionally stated that the ACC conducted a coordinated social media effort over several weeks showing its preference for Miami.
A Strong Response
Later on Tuesday, Yormark responded to the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“My opinion is that his behavior has been unacceptable,” Yormark stated. “He is completely out of bounds in his method and if he was in the same room, I’d say to him the same thing.”
The response is particularly significant given Bevacqua’s special position. He sits on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, representing the concerns of independent Notre Dame.
Past Context and Future Moves
The commissioner further remarked the assistance the ACC gave Notre Dame in the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full ACC schedule and a place in its title game.
“His behavior has been egregious,” he reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable attacking the ACC commissioner, when they saved Notre Dame during Covid...”
Rumors had circulated about Notre Dame possibly leaving the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public reprimand on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership unlikely in the immediate future.
The Irish, who made the CFP final last season, have stated they plan to decline a bowl game after missing out this season.
