Big 12 Conference Chief Calls Notre Dame Remarks Following CFP Snub as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
In a strong statement, Big 12 Conference commissioner stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for public remarks targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Root of the Controversy
The Fighting Irish has a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s bid to enter the College Football Playoff, instead campaigning for the selection of the University of Miami.
“The ACC do great things for Notre Dame, but we provide tremendous football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would go out of your way to try to undermine us in this process,” the athletic director remarked.
The Hurricanes ultimately received the CFP invitation over Notre Dame, largely due to winning the direct matchup between the two schools. Notre Dame's AD also claimed that the ACC ran a targeted social media effort over multiple weeks demonstrating its support for Miami.
An Egregious Reaction
Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner spoke about the criticism at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“My opinion is that his behavior has been unacceptable,” Yormark said. “He is totally out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the same room, I’d say to him the same thing.”
The pushback is especially significant 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.
Historical Context and Future Rumors
Yormark further remarked the assistance the ACC provided Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a berth in its title game.
“It has been egregious,” he said again. “It’s been unacceptable criticizing the ACC commissioner, when they helped Notre Dame during Covid...”
Speculation had spread about Notre Dame potentially splitting with the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public reprimand on Tuesday appear to make such a scenario less likely in the near term.
Notre Dame, who made the CFP championship game last season, have stated they are declining a postseason invitation after failing to qualify this season.
