Big 12 Chief Criticizes Notre Dame AD for ‘Egregious’ CFP Snub Behavior
The ongoing tension between Notre Dame and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has escalated, drawing criticism from Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. He recently denounced Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua’s harsh remarks aimed at ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips.
Context of the Conflict
This controversy arose after Notre Dame was overlooked for the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP). During a Monday appearance on the Dan Patrick Show, Bevacqua asserted that the ACC had inflicted “permanent damage” on its relationship with Notre Dame by endorsing Miami’s playoff push. Yormark responded on Tuesday, labeling Bevacqua’s behavior as “egregious” and criticizing his approach toward Phillips.
Notre Dame’s Position
- Most of Notre Dame’s sports are affiliated with the ACC.
- The football program remains independent.
- Bevacqua indicated that the ACC targeted Notre Dame while supporting Miami.
Bevacqua expressed dissatisfaction with being “singled out” by the ACC, highlighting the tension that ensued from the conference’s support for Miami. When probed on whether Notre Dame might reconsider its ties with the ACC, he described the relationship as “strained.”
Financial Implications
Financially, the stakes are significant. Notre Dame would have earned approximately $4 million merely for making the CFP. Additionally, there was a potential $25 million for reaching the national championship game, according to Front Office Sports’ David Rumsey.
Response from ACC and Big 12
In defense of his actions, Phillips stated that Notre Dame is a “valued member” of the ACC. He emphasized the conference’s duty to advocate for all 17 football-playing institutions. He assured that support for Miami did not imply Notre Dame was unworthy of playoff inclusion.
Yormark reminded critics that the ACC had supported Notre Dame during the COVID-19 pandemic by allowing them full membership for the 2020 season. He also highlighted that both teams finished the regular season with impressive 10-2 records, although Notre Dame had previously lost to Miami. However, Notre Dame consistently ranked above Miami in the CFP rankings, which showed the competitive landscape.
CFP Selection Dynamics
On Selection Day, changes emerged when BYU, ranked No. 11, lost the Big 12 championship. Yormark noted that CFP chair Hunter Yurachek had been clear about head-to-head results being significant, especially when teams are closely ranked.
Despite his disagreement with the exclusion of BYU, Yormark acknowledged the selection committee’s decision-making process as “overall” correct. He remarked, “It’s progress over perfection,” signaling a complex relationship between all parties involved.
Future Considerations
The current clash between Notre Dame, the ACC, and the Big 12 unfolds amid uncertain CFP expansion plans. Conference leadership has delayed crucial decisions regarding the 2026 playoff format, now set to be addressed by January 23. As dialogues continue, the future of collegiate football playoff inclusion remains a hot topic.
