Conflict Over Notre Dame’s Playoff Situation

Brett Yormark, the Big 12 commissioner, has entered the fray concerning Notre Dame’s struggles with its College Football Playoff competitiveness. Recently, Pete Bevacqua, Notre Dame’s athletic director, expressed frustration over the ACC’s efforts that seemed to undermine his school while promoting Miami’s playoff candidacy.

This outburst hasn’t sat well with everyone. Yormark described Bevacqua’s remarks following the team’s playoff exit as “over the top.” Notre Dame opted out of participating in a bowl game, which has left Bevacqua irate over what he perceives as the ACC’s targeting of their bowl opportunities.

During a talk at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum, Yormark didn’t hold back on his criticism of Bevacqua. He stated, “I don’t like Notre Dame’s reaction. Pete, I think his actions were terrible.” He noted that ACC commissioner Jim Phillips previously supported Notre Dame during COVID-19 and mentioned how factors like head-to-head matchups were always clear in the selection process. “It’s all very transparent,” he said, insisting that Bevacqua’s approach was excessive and that he would say the same directly to him.

In response to Bevacqua’s complaints, Phillips issued a statement on Monday that maintained a civil tone, reiterating Notre Dame’s value to the conference. He emphasized his support for the ACC’s mission to advocate for all 17 member institutions participating in football.

“At no time did the ACC suggest that Notre Dame was not a worthy candidate for inclusion in this field,” Phillips clarified. “While we are excited for the University of Miami, we understand and appreciate the great disappointment of the Notre Dame players, coaches, and program.”