Big 12 Conference Chief Labels Notre Dame Remarks After CFP Snub as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’
During a strong criticism, Big 12 Conference commissioner declared that Notre Dame's AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his remarks targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The Source of the Tension
Notre Dame has a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. Bevacqua has claimed that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s chances to qualify for the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to pushing for the spot of the University of Miami.
“They does wonderful things for Notre Dame, but we provide significant 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 procedure,” Bevacqua stated.
The Hurricanes ultimately secured the CFP invitation over Notre Dame, mostly due to securing the direct contest between the two teams. Bevacqua additionally stated that the ACC engaged in a coordinated social media effort over multiple weeks showing its support for Miami.
An Egregious Reaction
Subsequently on Tuesday, Yormark responded to the criticism at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“In my view his behavior has been egregious,” Yormark commented. “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 response is particularly striking given Bevacqua’s prominent 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 Speculative Rumors
The commissioner also highlighted the assistance the ACC offered Notre Dame during the pandemic-disrupted 2020 season, providing the Irish a full conference schedule and a place in its title game.
“His behavior has been unacceptable,” he said again. “It’s been egregious attacking the ACC commissioner, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”
Talk had spread about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public comments on Tuesday appear to make such a move unlikely in the near term.
Notre Dame, who reached the CFP championship game last season, have stated they plan to decline a bowl game after missing out this year.
