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At a strong criticism, Brett Yormark stated that Notre Dame AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “entirely out of bounds” for recent comments targeting the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root of the Tension

Notre Dame has a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. The AD has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s opportunities to qualify for the College Football Playoff, instead campaigning for the selection of the University of Miami.

“They do great things for Notre Dame, but we offer tremendous football value to the ACC, and we couldn't comprehend why you would go out of your way to try to damage us in this process,” Bevacqua said.

Miami ultimately received the CFP spot over Notre Dame, largely due to winning the direct meeting between the two programs. Notre Dame's AD additionally stated that the ACC conducted a targeted social media push over multiple weeks demonstrating its support for Miami.

A Strong Reaction

Later on Tuesday, the Big 12 commissioner responded to the comments at the Sports Business Journal’s Intercollegiate Athletics Forum.

“My opinion is that his actions has been out of line,” Yormark said. “He is completely out of bounds in his tactics and if he was in the same room, I’d tell him the same thing.”

This public response is especially notable given Bevacqua’s unique role. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee with the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of football independent Notre Dame.

Historical Support and Speculative Rumors

Yormark further highlighted the assistance the ACC offered Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a complete ACC schedule and a place in its championship game.

“It has been unacceptable,” Yormark reiterated. “It’s been unacceptable going after Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”

Speculation had circulated about Notre Dame possibly splitting with the ACC and partnering with the Big 12. Yet, Yormark's public comments on Tuesday appear to make such a partnership less likely in the near term.

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