Notre Dame Declines Bowl Game Following College Football Playoff Snub
Notre Dame has made headlines by declining an invitation to participate in a bowl game following its exclusion from the College Football Playoff. This decision marks a significant moment as the Fighting Irish become the first team left out of the playoff to officially opt-out of postseason play.
Details of Notre Dame’s Decision
The Fighting Irish announced their decision on social media, expressing gratitude towards their fans and families. They stated, “As a team, we’ve decided to withdraw our name from consideration for a bowl game following the 2025 season.” This announcement comes after an impressive finish to the season, where Notre Dame won its last ten games, achieving a final season record of 10-2.
Rankings and Playoff Context
Despite their strong performance, Notre Dame finished ranked No. 9 in the Associated Press poll and No. 11 in the College Football Playoff rankings. The team lost to Ohio State in the national championship game the previous season. Miami managed to secure a playoff position by climbing from No. 12 to No. 10 in the rankings, while Notre Dame dropped a position, leading to their first postseason absence since 2016.
Notre Dame’s athletics director, Pete Bevacqua, highlighted that under the current playoff format, their team would secure a playoff spot if they finish in the top 12 of the final CFP poll. This assurance stems from a memorandum of understanding established earlier this year.
Other Teams Opting Out
Notre Dame is not alone in its decision to forgo bowl participation. Both Iowa State and Kansas State have also announced they will not accept bowl invitations, despite being eligible. This decision comes amid coaching transitions for both programs.
Iowa State’s Circumstances
- Iowa State finished the season with an 8-4 record.
- The team’s players voted to decline bowl participation, citing health concerns and injuries.
- Newly appointed head coach Jimmy Rogers will replace Matt Campbell, who departed for Penn State.
The Big 12 Conference plans to impose a $500,000 fine on both Iowa State and Kansas State for their decisions. Athletic director Jamie Pollard emphasized support for the student-athletes during this challenging time.
Kansas State’s Situation
- Kansas State concluded the season with a 6-6 record.
- Athletic director Gene Taylor consulted with players and the Big 12 commissioner prior to their decision.
- The team faced uncertainties regarding player availability amid their coaching staff transition.
Both Iowa State and Kansas State displayed commendable teamwork and resilience in their recent seasons. Their decisions reflect the unique challenges faced during transitions in coaching and player health.
