Notre Dame Labels ACC Relationship ‘Strained’ After Playoff Snub
In the wake of being excluded from the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame’s athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, described the university’s relationship with the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) as strained. During a news conference at Notre Dame’s South Bend, Indiana campus, Bevacqua expressed his disbelief over the selection committee’s decision to leave the Fighting Irish out of the 12-team playoff despite their strong season performance.
Notre Dame Football Season Overview
Notre Dame faced a rocky start to the season, losing its first two games by a combined total of four points. However, the team regrouped and achieved an impressive record of 10-2, winning its subsequent ten games. This performance led to significant disappointment when they were ultimately left out of the playoff.
Selection Committee’s Decision
- Bevacqua stated there was “no good explanation” for the exclusion.
- The Fighting Irish were ranked 10th during the selection committee’s initial rankings.
- On the final ranking, they slipped to 11th, missing the playoffs entirely.
Bevacqua articulated his frustrations, particularly regarding social media graphics from the ACC that compared Notre Dame’s playoff resume with Miami’s. Despite losing to Notre Dame earlier in the season, Miami earned the last playoff spot. This has fueled a sense of betrayal among Notre Dame officials, as the team continues to maintain an independent status while participating in the ACC for most sports.
Future Conversations with the ACC
Bevacqua mentioned that while the relationship might be strained, there is potential for healing through future discussions with ACC leadership. He indicated the need for a frank and honest conversation at the appropriate time.
ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips defended the conference’s position, stating that at no point was Notre Dame deemed unworthy of playoff inclusion. He highlighted the need to support all 17 member institutions within the conference while expressing sympathy towards the disappointment felt by Notre Dame players and coaches.
Looking Forward
Despite the turmoil, a memorandum of understanding guarantees Notre Dame a playoff spot if they are ranked 12th or higher once the playoff expands next season. Bevacqua emphasized that this year’s decision to forgo a bowl game was solely due to the team’s expressed desire to finish with their original group.
Historical Context
Notre Dame has unique standing in college football, remaining independent while most teams have joined powerhouse conferences like the Big Ten and SEC. Their long-standing media rights agreement with NBC ensures they can maintain this status until at least the 2029 season.
The recent playoff controversy has sparked conversations about Notre Dame’s future in college football, intensifying scrutiny on their ability to manage relationships while maintaining an independent football program.
