Big 12 Commissioner Calls Notre Dame Remarks After CFP Snub as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’

In a strong statement, Big 12 chief stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for his criticisms targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root of the Controversy

Notre Dame maintains a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a full member in all other sports. The AD has contended that the ACC actively damaged Notre Dame’s opportunities to qualify for the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to campaigning for the selection 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 selection,” the athletic director stated.

Miami eventually earned the CFP berth over Notre Dame, largely due to winning the head-to-head contest between the two teams. Bevacqua additionally stated that the ACC conducted a targeted social media effort over multiple weeks indicating its support for Miami.

A Strong Response

Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner spoke about the comments at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.

“In my view his behavior has been unacceptable,” the commissioner stated. “He is completely out of bounds in his method and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.”

The pushback is especially significant given Bevacqua’s unique role. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of independent Notre Dame.

Historical Support and Future Moves

Yormark also highlighted the support the ACC offered Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a place in its title game.

“His behavior has been unacceptable,” he reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable attacking Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”

Speculation had spread about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. However, the commissioner's strong reprimand on Tuesday appear to make such a partnership highly improbable in the near term.

Notre Dame, who made the CFP final last season, have stated they are declining a bowl game after failing to qualify this season.