Big 12 Commissioner Labels Notre Dame Remarks Following CFP Snub as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’
During a notable statement, Brett Yormark asserted that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his criticisms about the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
The Source of the Dispute
The Fighting Irish has a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. Bevacqua has argued that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s chances to enter the College Football Playoff, instead pushing for the spot of the University of Miami.
“The ACC does wonderful things for Notre Dame, but we bring substantial football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to damage us in this process,” the athletic director stated.
Miami ultimately received the CFP berth over Notre Dame, primarily due to winning the direct matchup between the two programs. Notre Dame's AD additionally stated that the ACC ran a targeted social media effort over several weeks indicating its support for Miami.
A Strong Rebuke
Subsequently on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner responded to the allegations at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.
“I think his behavior has been out of line,” Yormark said. “He is totally out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.”
This public response is especially significant given Bevacqua’s prominent role. 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 Moves
The commissioner further highlighted the assistance the ACC offered Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full conference schedule and a place in its title game.
“It has been unacceptable,” Yormark reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable criticizing Jim Phillips, when they saved 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 comments on Tuesday seem to make such a scenario less likely in the near term.
The Irish, who reached the CFP final last season, have stated they will decline a bowl game after failing to qualify this year.
