Big 12 Chief Labels Notre Dame Remarks After CFP Snub as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’
During a public criticism, Brett Yormark stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his criticisms targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Tension
Notre Dame maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC hurt Notre Dame’s chances to qualify for the College Football Playoff, instead pushing for the selection of the University of Miami.
“The ACC 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 procedure,” the athletic director stated.
Miami eventually earned the CFP spot over Notre Dame, largely due to winning the direct matchup between the two teams. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC engaged in a coordinated social media effort over several weeks demonstrating its support for Miami.
An Egregious Reaction
Later on Tuesday, Yormark addressed the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“In my view his conduct has been unacceptable,” the commissioner said. “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 pushback is particularly notable given Bevacqua’s special position. He sits on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, representing the interests of independent Notre Dame.
Historical Support and Future Moves
The commissioner also pointed out the support the ACC offered Notre Dame in the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full conference schedule and a place in its title game.
“It has been unacceptable,” he reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable attacking Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”
Speculation had circulated about Notre Dame potentially leaving the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's strong comments on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership less likely in the immediate future.
The Irish, who reached the CFP final last season, have indicated they will decline a bowl game after missing out this season.
