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During a strong statement, Big 12 Conference commissioner asserted that Notre Dame's AD, Pete Bevacqua, was “totally out of bounds” for recent criticisms concerning the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Root of the Tension

Notre Dame maintains a football scheduling alliance with the ACC and is a full member in other sports. Bevacqua has contended that the ACC harmed Notre Dame’s bid to enter the College Football Playoff, instead choosing to pushing for the selection of the University of Miami.

“They do great things for Notre Dame, but we bring substantial football value to the ACC, and we didn’t understand why you would make an effort to try to undermine us in this procedure,” Bevacqua said.

The Hurricanes ultimately earned the CFP berth over Notre Dame, primarily due to securing the direct matchup between the two schools. Bevacqua further alleged that the ACC engaged in a coordinated social media campaign over several weeks showing its support for Miami.

A Strong Response

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

“My opinion is that his actions has been unacceptable,” the commissioner commented. “He is totally out of bounds in his approach and if he was in the same room, I’d tell him the same thing.”

This public criticism is particularly striking given Bevacqua’s unique standing. He serves on the College Football Playoff Management Committee alongside the ten FBS conference commissioners, advocating for the concerns of football independent Notre Dame.

Past Context and Future Rumors

Yormark further highlighted the support the ACC gave Notre Dame during the Covid-affected 2020 season, providing the Irish a full conference schedule and a place in its title game.

“His behavior has been egregious,” Yormark said again. “It’s been egregious attacking Jim Phillips, when they rescued Notre Dame during Covid...”

Talk had spread about Notre Dame potentially leaving the ACC and aligning with the Big 12. However, Yormark's strong comments on Tuesday seem to make such a move unlikely in the near term.

Notre Dame, who made the CFP championship game last season, have announced they will decline a bowl game after missing out this year.