🔗 Share this article Big 12 Chief Labels Notre Dame Remarks After CFP Omission as ‘Totally Out of Bounds’ In a strong criticism, Brett Yormark asserted that Notre Dame's athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, was “completely out of bounds” for his comments about the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Root of the Tension Notre Dame maintains a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a participating member in all other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC hurt Notre Dame’s chances to make the College Football Playoff, instead campaigning for the spot of the University of Miami. “The ACC does great things for Notre Dame, but we bring substantial football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would make an effort to try to undermine us in this process,” Bevacqua said. Miami ultimately received the CFP berth over Notre Dame, mostly due to winning the direct contest between the two schools. Bevacqua additionally stated that the ACC conducted a targeted social media effort over several weeks demonstrating its support for Miami. A Strong Response Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner responded to the comments at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum. “I think his actions has been unacceptable,” Yormark said. “He is totally out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the room, I’d tell him the same thing.” This public response is especially significant given Bevacqua’s unique standing. He sits on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of independent Notre Dame. Historical Support and Future Rumors Yormark also remarked the support the ACC provided Notre Dame during the pandemic-disrupted 2020 season, providing the Irish a full conference schedule and a berth in its title game. “It has been egregious,” Yormark said again. “It’s been egregious going after the ACC commissioner, when they saved Notre Dame during Covid...” Speculation had spread about Notre Dame possibly leaving the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public reprimand on Tuesday seem to make such a partnership unlikely in the immediate future. Notre Dame, who reached the CFP final last season, have indicated they will decline a postseason invitation after missing out this year.