Big 12 Conference Commissioner Labels Notre Dame Remarks After CFP Snub as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’

During a notable statement, Big 12 Conference commissioner asserted that Notre Dame athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for his criticisms about the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root of the Tension

The Fighting Irish maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a full member in all other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s chances to enter the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to campaigning for the inclusion of the University of Miami.

“They does 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,” Bevacqua stated.

The Hurricanes ultimately earned the CFP berth over Notre Dame, mostly due to securing the direct meeting between the two programs. Bevacqua also claimed that the ACC conducted a coordinated social media push over multiple weeks showing its support for Miami.

A Strong Response

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

“I think his behavior has been unacceptable,” Yormark commented. “He is completely out of bounds in his method and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.”

This public response is particularly striking given Bevacqua’s unique position. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of independent Notre Dame.

Historical Context and Future Moves

The commissioner further highlighted the support the ACC gave Notre Dame in the Covid-affected 2020 season, giving the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a place in its championship game.

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

Rumors had circulated about Notre Dame potentially leaving the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. However, Yormark's public comments on Tuesday seem to make such a move unlikely in the immediate future.

The Irish, who made the CFP final last season, have indicated they will decline a postseason invitation after failing to qualify this year.