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In a notable criticism, Big 12 Conference commissioner stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for recent comments about the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root of the Tension

The Fighting Irish maintains a gridiron scheduling agreement with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s bid to make the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to pushing for the selection of the University of Miami.

“They does great things for Notre Dame, but we bring tremendous football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to hurt us in this process,” the athletic director stated.

Miami ultimately secured the CFP spot over Notre Dame, primarily due to winning the direct meeting between the two programs. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC ran a targeted social media effort over multiple weeks showing its support for Miami.

A Strong Reaction

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

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

The pushback is particularly significant given Bevacqua’s special standing. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of independent Notre Dame.

Past Context and Speculative Moves

The commissioner further pointed out the assistance the ACC provided Notre Dame in the Covid-affected 2020 season, giving the Irish a full ACC schedule and a place in its championship game.

“It has been egregious,” he reiterated. “It’s been egregious attacking Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”

Speculation had circulated about Notre Dame possibly leaving the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. Yet, the commissioner's strong comments on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership less likely in the immediate future.

Notre Dame, who reached the CFP championship game last season, have stated they plan to decline a postseason invitation after failing to qualify this year.