Big 12 Chief Labels Notre Dame Remarks Following CFP Omission as ‘Completely Out of Bounds’

In a strong statement, Big 12 chief asserted that Notre Dame's AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for public criticisms concerning the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root 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 hurt Notre Dame’s bid to make the College Football Playoff, instead campaigning for the inclusion 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 make an effort to try to undermine us in this procedure,” the athletic director said.

The Hurricanes eventually secured the CFP invitation over Notre Dame, largely due to securing the head-to-head contest between the two programs. Notre Dame's AD also claimed that the ACC engaged in a targeted social media campaign over several weeks indicating its support for Miami.

A Strong Reaction

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

“My opinion is that his conduct has been egregious,” Yormark stated. “He is completely out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the room, I’d say to him the same thing.”

The criticism is especially notable given Bevacqua’s special standing. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of football independent Notre Dame.

Historical Support and Future 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 berth in its championship game.

“His behavior has been unacceptable,” Yormark said again. “It’s been egregious attacking the ACC commissioner, when they helped Notre Dame during Covid...”

Rumors had spread about Notre Dame possibly leaving the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. However, Yormark's strong reprimand on Tuesday appear to make such a move highly improbable in the near term.

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