2025 College Football Thread: Lane Kiffin suddenly feels compelled to read morals clause of contract (10 Viewers)

[bigbottom]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Now look me in the eye and say that joining the ACC and adding 2 more ACC games would make their SOS better without laughing.

Our five contractual ACC games plus one: UNC, Miami, BC, SMU, Syracuse, and Stanford. 4 B1G teams Wisconsin, Michigan St, Purdue, and USC. Rice (AAC, better than a FCS team) and Navy which has been a respectable team the last couple of years but that game will never go away no matter what ND does as independent or conference or what.

So.... it is an ACC and B1G schedule but "join a conference!" uh... ok. Who is going to tell me that if ND dropped two B1G games in this schedule and added two more ACC games that the whiners/haters would be silent about the schedule?

But in NIL and portal era, it is pretty early to make statements like 'embarrassing' schedule and kind of hints towards a bias in writing the article. And that is important point on top of the fact that these teams can change quickly, there is no way to know that a team like Wisconsin which usually fields a strong team is going to suck a few years down the road when these things are scheduled let alone next year when you have transfer portals that can gut or build a team over night.

We have been scheduling some home and home series and targeting SEC teams like Texas and Auburn (hopefully they get stronger come time to play them).

That schedule is embarrassing. Full stop. ND needs to join the Big 10. Make it happen.

Some of the big 10 schedules are embarrassingly bad as well.

Which ones are even close to as bad as ND’s schedule next year without USC?

The two best Teams in Big 10 (country?) had easy schedules this year. Playing powerhouses like Old Dominion, Kennesaw St, Indiana State, Ohio University, Grambling, UCLA, Maryland, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State.

Ohio State played top 25 teams Texas, Michigan and Indiana (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois, Washington and Penn State, who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

Indiana’s schedule is slightly worse though they played Top 25 teams Oregon, Iowa and Ohio State (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois and Penn State who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

While not great (you are correct there), these don’t seem as embarrassingly bad as Notre Dame’s schedule next year sans USC. Outside of Miami (which Notre Dame has at home), which of these teams presents even the remotest challenge? SMU possibly?

Away at Purdue, UNC and Syracuse.

Home to Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State, Navy, Boston College, SMU, Stanford

ND really needs to get that USC deal sorted. I get that Notre Dame has a good national fan base to support its NBC deal, but several years of schedules like these with few marquee matchups may not be the right formula to grow or sustain viewership long term.

 

[Chadstroma]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

 

[Chadstroma]

McAfee is now also saying that the captains went leadership and said the team doesn't want to play a bowl game citing "source-es" so now I am hearing it in other areas.

 

[Jayded]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Ahh got it. You think he’s citing “student athlete” when convenient. I don’t think that’s the case.

I think he simply meant “players” of which some obviously Will and some obviously won’t go pro. Since the team voted, including the non-pros, to just move forward, I didn’t see the latter comment as hypocritically focusing solely on those going pro. Football has always been communicated as a sport where you cannot just show up and go through the motions or you risk injury. If their collective hearts aren’t in it, I don’t want to see anyone hurt, pro at school or pro at football.

 

[Chadstroma]

I don’t think ND should join the ACC. ND belongs in the Big 10 playing against its storied rivals.

At this point, the conferences need to be blown up. Two and 3/4's of relevant conferences (B1G and SEC then half relevancy for Big 12 and a quarter relevancy for ACC) is not good for college football. And again, ND being in or out of ACC or B1G doesn't move the needle anywhere to fixing anything.

BTW- I use to agree with you before the ACC deal and I said more than once to more than one person that they should have joined the B1G and citing that most of it's historic rivals were there and that was before USC moving.

 

[Chadstroma]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Edit: And USC - ND next year is not a done deal. Word on the street is that USC will agree to play Notre Dame if it’s early in the season. If an agreement isn’t reached, an 11-1 record against this cupcake schedule with only three away games (at UNC, Syracuse and Purdue) is pretty much a guarantee, no?

I hate it, and most fans do too. I think people aren’t realizing this is where the ACC deal has come in. It mattered to fill in a full schedule, but there weren’t any guarantees to supply quality teams so schedules can get awful, boring, and bring a terrible SOS to the table.

I’m pretty sure Miami is only on there because they canceled the 2024 game (that ND replaced with Army) and thankfully help prop up a dreadful 2026 slate. USC/ND does sound all but done as scheduled for 2 more years btw, so we’ll see there.

But I promise most fans want better than this. These are some of the final remnants of Swarbrick and Kelly. One more reason ND fans complained about Kelly is he advocated for watering the schedule down and still didn’t win anything important.

Why did they leave the Big East for non-football sports? Seems like that would be a good fit.

Scheduling around COVID made the ACC beneficial for them and its non-football sports gave a good spot to land sports like basketball and lacrosse.

These Big East is another rumored option again, but they’d have to have a fully independent football plan if so, hence my note suggesting they will first likely try some deal ACC-like. Conferences don’t Al have to agree as I see many hate that the ACC did here, but it’s not on ND if they try and it works and especially if it improves their SOS

Yea if they are fully independent for football, it's probably hard to get 12 games every year, eh? Especially mid and late season.

Yes, because most teams are scheduled for their conference games at those times. And back when they made this deal with the ACC, the ACC was still more respectable in quality of teams. Miami is strong, Clemson will right the ship and Florida St can easily be relevant again... outside of that, the ACC isn't showing life worth living. And when they stumble enough to have Duke in your championship game with your best team not even playing in it.... that is the kind of stumbles that lead to the PAC12 being blown up.

 

[bigbottom]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

 

[Jayded]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Edit: And USC - ND next year is not a done deal. Word on the street is that USC will agree to play Notre Dame if it’s early in the season. If an agreement isn’t reached, an 11-1 record against this cupcake schedule with only three away games (at UNC, Syracuse and Purdue) is pretty much a guarantee, no?

Future years starts to look a lot better where Bevacqua is starting to build it out. Now, the challenge with this is always how it looks on paper vs why it actually becomes (like for anyone who scheduled Clemson a while ago and ended up playing this year’s version)

2028 = Texas, Clemson, Miami, USC?
2029 = Alabama, Texas, FSU, Clemson, USC?
2030 = Indiana, Alabama, Clemson, FSU, USC?

Notre Dame Football Schedule | Future Schedules

View the Notre Dame football schedule for the 2025 season, plus future schedules and opponents at FBSchedules.com.

fbschedules.com

 

[Chadstroma]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Now look me in the eye and say that joining the ACC and adding 2 more ACC games would make their SOS better without laughing.

Our five contractual ACC games plus one: UNC, Miami, BC, SMU, Syracuse, and Stanford. 4 B1G teams Wisconsin, Michigan St, Purdue, and USC. Rice (AAC, better than a FCS team) and Navy which has been a respectable team the last couple of years but that game will never go away no matter what ND does as independent or conference or what.

So.... it is an ACC and B1G schedule but "join a conference!" uh... ok. Who is going to tell me that if ND dropped two B1G games in this schedule and added two more ACC games that the whiners/haters would be silent about the schedule?

But in NIL and portal era, it is pretty early to make statements like 'embarrassing' schedule and kind of hints towards a bias in writing the article. And that is important point on top of the fact that these teams can change quickly, there is no way to know that a team like Wisconsin which usually fields a strong team is going to suck a few years down the road when these things are scheduled let alone next year when you have transfer portals that can gut or build a team over night.

We have been scheduling some home and home series and targeting SEC teams like Texas and Auburn (hopefully they get stronger come time to play them).

That schedule is embarrassing. Full stop. ND needs to join the Big 10. Make it happen.

Some of the big 10 schedules are embarrassingly bad as well.

Which ones are even close to as bad as ND’s schedule next year without USC?

The two best Teams in Big 10 (country?) had easy schedules this year. Playing powerhouses like Old Dominion, Kennesaw St, Indiana State, Ohio University, Grambling, UCLA, Maryland, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State.

Ohio State played top 25 teams Texas, Michigan and Indiana (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois, Washington and Penn State, who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

Indiana’s schedule is slightly worse though they played Top 25 teams Oregon, Iowa and Ohio State (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois and Penn State who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

While not great (you are correct there), these don’t seem as embarrassingly bad as Notre Dame’s schedule next year sans USC. Outside of Miami (which Notre Dame has at home), which of these teams presents even the remotest challenge? SMU possibly?

Away at Purdue, UNC and Syracuse.

Home to Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State, Navy, Boston College, SMU, Stanford

ND really needs to get that USC deal sorted. I get that Notre Dame has a good national fan base to support its NBC deal, but several years of schedules like these with few marquee matchups may not be the right formula to grow or sustain viewership long term.

10 games are ACC or B1G games. ND can't control the ACC and B1G teams sucking or not. How many other teams next year have scheduled 10 or more power 4 games? ND has been making scheduling home and home series with SEC teams a priority.

 

[bigbottom]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Edit: And USC - ND next year is not a done deal. Word on the street is that USC will agree to play Notre Dame if it’s early in the season. If an agreement isn’t reached, an 11-1 record against this cupcake schedule with only three away games (at UNC, Syracuse and Purdue) is pretty much a guarantee, no?

Future years starts to look a lot better where Bevacqua is starting to build it out. Now, the challenge with this is always how it looks on paper vs why it actually becomes (like for anyone who scheduled Clemson a while ago and ended up playing this year’s version)

2028 = Texas, Clemson, Miami, USC?
2029 = Alabama, Texas, FSU, Clemson, USC?
2030 = Indiana, Alabama, Clemson, FSU, USC?

Notre Dame Football Schedule | Future Schedules

View the Notre Dame football schedule for the 2025 season, plus future schedules and opponents at FBSchedules.com.

fbschedules.com

Yes, that is much better.

 

[whoknew]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Edit: And USC - ND next year is not a done deal. Word on the street is that USC will agree to play Notre Dame if it’s early in the season. If an agreement isn’t reached, an 11-1 record against this cupcake schedule with only three away games (at UNC, Syracuse and Purdue) is pretty much a guarantee, no?

Future years starts to look a lot better where Bevacqua is starting to build it out. Now, the challenge with this is always how it looks on paper vs why it actually becomes (like for anyone who scheduled Clemson a while ago and ended up playing this year’s version)

2028 = Texas, Clemson, Miami, USC?
2029 = Alabama, Texas, FSU, Clemson, USC?
2030 = Indiana, Alabama, Clemson, FSU, USC?

Notre Dame Football Schedule | Future Schedules

View the Notre Dame football schedule for the 2025 season, plus future schedules and opponents at FBSchedules.com.

fbschedules.com

And don't forget, in like 2075 (ish) we get to resume Michigan/Notre Dame.

 

[whoknew]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

I agree with this. It's pretty surprising that the coaches didn't stand up like, say - Clark Lea of Vanderbilt did.

Also - I can't believe the staff would want to give up 15 practices. That seems crazy to me.

 

[Chadstroma]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

What I am hearing is that the captains were either consulted or from what McAfee said, went to leadership and said something along the lines of "half of the captains will not play and the team will not be the team of this season, there is no benefit to us in playing and we don't want to".

Whatever actually happened, it looks like it was at least discussed with the athletes if not initiated by the athletes. And I get it. What benefit is there for the kids to play? Maybe some seniors would want to take the field that one very last time in their lifetime.... ND gives up 15 practices that could be useful to jump start next year but outside of that and a $3ish million dollar payout.... what does ND get out of it? I would be pissed if Carr played. Love and Price wouldn't for sure.

 

[Chadstroma]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

I agree with this. It's pretty surprising that the coaches didn't stand up like, say - Clark Lea of Vanderbilt did.

Also - I can't believe the staff would want to give up 15 practices. That seems crazy to me.

The 15 practices are really the only thing they are giving up that matters.

 

[bigbottom]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Now look me in the eye and say that joining the ACC and adding 2 more ACC games would make their SOS better without laughing.

Our five contractual ACC games plus one: UNC, Miami, BC, SMU, Syracuse, and Stanford. 4 B1G teams Wisconsin, Michigan St, Purdue, and USC. Rice (AAC, better than a FCS team) and Navy which has been a respectable team the last couple of years but that game will never go away no matter what ND does as independent or conference or what.

So.... it is an ACC and B1G schedule but "join a conference!" uh... ok. Who is going to tell me that if ND dropped two B1G games in this schedule and added two more ACC games that the whiners/haters would be silent about the schedule?

But in NIL and portal era, it is pretty early to make statements like 'embarrassing' schedule and kind of hints towards a bias in writing the article. And that is important point on top of the fact that these teams can change quickly, there is no way to know that a team like Wisconsin which usually fields a strong team is going to suck a few years down the road when these things are scheduled let alone next year when you have transfer portals that can gut or build a team over night.

We have been scheduling some home and home series and targeting SEC teams like Texas and Auburn (hopefully they get stronger come time to play them).

That schedule is embarrassing. Full stop. ND needs to join the Big 10. Make it happen.

Some of the big 10 schedules are embarrassingly bad as well.

Which ones are even close to as bad as ND’s schedule next year without USC?

The two best Teams in Big 10 (country?) had easy schedules this year. Playing powerhouses like Old Dominion, Kennesaw St, Indiana State, Ohio University, Grambling, UCLA, Maryland, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State.

Ohio State played top 25 teams Texas, Michigan and Indiana (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois, Washington and Penn State, who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

Indiana’s schedule is slightly worse though they played Top 25 teams Oregon, Iowa and Ohio State (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois and Penn State who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

While not great (you are correct there), these don’t seem as embarrassingly bad as Notre Dame’s schedule next year sans USC. Outside of Miami (which Notre Dame has at home), which of these teams presents even the remotest challenge? SMU possibly?

Away at Purdue, UNC and Syracuse.

Home to Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State, Navy, Boston College, SMU, Stanford

ND really needs to get that USC deal sorted. I get that Notre Dame has a good national fan base to support its NBC deal, but several years of schedules like these with few marquee matchups may not be the right formula to grow or sustain viewership long term.

10 games are ACC or B1G games. ND can't control the ACC and B1G teams sucking or not. How many other teams next year have scheduled 10 or more power 4 games? ND has been making scheduling home and home series with SEC teams a priority.

Fair enough. As for your question, I assume you are counting USC among the 10 games for ND? If so, the answer to your question is USC (assuming you consider ND among the Power 4 teams), and every other major program that schedules one power 4 game among their three non-conference games - I imagine there are many.

 

[Chadstroma]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Now look me in the eye and say that joining the ACC and adding 2 more ACC games would make their SOS better without laughing.

Our five contractual ACC games plus one: UNC, Miami, BC, SMU, Syracuse, and Stanford. 4 B1G teams Wisconsin, Michigan St, Purdue, and USC. Rice (AAC, better than a FCS team) and Navy which has been a respectable team the last couple of years but that game will never go away no matter what ND does as independent or conference or what.

So.... it is an ACC and B1G schedule but "join a conference!" uh... ok. Who is going to tell me that if ND dropped two B1G games in this schedule and added two more ACC games that the whiners/haters would be silent about the schedule?

But in NIL and portal era, it is pretty early to make statements like 'embarrassing' schedule and kind of hints towards a bias in writing the article. And that is important point on top of the fact that these teams can change quickly, there is no way to know that a team like Wisconsin which usually fields a strong team is going to suck a few years down the road when these things are scheduled let alone next year when you have transfer portals that can gut or build a team over night.

We have been scheduling some home and home series and targeting SEC teams like Texas and Auburn (hopefully they get stronger come time to play them).

That schedule is embarrassing. Full stop. ND needs to join the Big 10. Make it happen.

Some of the big 10 schedules are embarrassingly bad as well.

Which ones are even close to as bad as ND’s schedule next year without USC?

The two best Teams in Big 10 (country?) had easy schedules this year. Playing powerhouses like Old Dominion, Kennesaw St, Indiana State, Ohio University, Grambling, UCLA, Maryland, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State.

Ohio State played top 25 teams Texas, Michigan and Indiana (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois, Washington and Penn State, who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

Indiana’s schedule is slightly worse though they played Top 25 teams Oregon, Iowa and Ohio State (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois and Penn State who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

While not great (you are correct there), these don’t seem as embarrassingly bad as Notre Dame’s schedule next year sans USC. Outside of Miami (which Notre Dame has at home), which of these teams presents even the remotest challenge? SMU possibly?

Away at Purdue, UNC and Syracuse.

Home to Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State, Navy, Boston College, SMU, Stanford

ND really needs to get that USC deal sorted. I get that Notre Dame has a good national fan base to support its NBC deal, but several years of schedules like these with few marquee matchups may not be the right formula to grow or sustain viewership long term.

10 games are ACC or B1G games. ND can't control the ACC and B1G teams sucking or not. How many other teams next year have scheduled 10 or more power 4 games? ND has been making scheduling home and home series with SEC teams a priority.

Fair enough. As for your question, I assume you are counting USC among the 10 games for ND? If so, the answer to your question is USC (assuming you consider ND among the Power 4 teams), and every other major program that schedules one power 4 game among their three non-conference games - I imagine there are many.

I forgot the Big Ten and Big 12 pay 9 conference games. I was thinking the 8 that ACC and SEC play.

 

[AAABatteries]

The ACC has won 8 national championships since Notre Dame won one. ND fans are ****ing delusional. Sure ACC is down and might go away for football but they’ve won more titles than any conference not named the SEC since 1988 when ND won last.

 

[bigbottom]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

What I am hearing is that the captains were either consulted or from what McAfee said, went to leadership and said something along the lines of "half of the captains will not play and the team will not be the team of this season, there is no benefit to us in playing and we don't want to".

Whatever actually happened, it looks like it was at least discussed with the athletes if not initiated by the athletes. And I get it. What benefit is there for the kids to play? Maybe some seniors would want to take the field that one very last time in their lifetime.... ND gives up 15 practices that could be useful to jump start next year but outside of that and a $3ish million dollar payout.... what does ND get out of it? I would be pissed if Carr played. Love and Price wouldn't for sure.

This is the case for everyone though. I am excited for the Alamo Bowl to see some of the young players for USC get some playing time in a real game situation. I think it will be extremely valuable both for their development and for the coaching staff to fine tune their portal strategy.

I’m also reminded of the bowl game two years ago when Miller Moss threw six touchdowns against Louisville and won the starting job for USC. Though that didn’t end up working out so well (though Louisville was impressed enough to pick him up a year later).

 

[Chadstroma]

This is the case for everyone though. I am excited for the Alamo Bowl to see some of the young players for USC get some playing time in a real game situation. I think it will be extremely valuable both for their development and for the coaching staff to fine tune their portal strategy.

I’m also reminded of the bowl game two years ago when Miller Moss threw six touchdowns against Louisville and won the starting job for USC. Though that didn’t end up working out so well (though Louisville was impressed enough to pick him up a year later).

I got you. I get it. I am not opposed to the decision. I rather them focus on the portal and get a couple of top end guys to come in. Hoping for Nick Marsh.

 

[bigbottom]

https://thespun.com/college-football/notre-dames-2026-football-schedule-is-embarrassing

Now look me in the eye and say that joining the ACC and adding 2 more ACC games would make their SOS better without laughing.

Our five contractual ACC games plus one: UNC, Miami, BC, SMU, Syracuse, and Stanford. 4 B1G teams Wisconsin, Michigan St, Purdue, and USC. Rice (AAC, better than a FCS team) and Navy which has been a respectable team the last couple of years but that game will never go away no matter what ND does as independent or conference or what.

So.... it is an ACC and B1G schedule but "join a conference!" uh... ok. Who is going to tell me that if ND dropped two B1G games in this schedule and added two more ACC games that the whiners/haters would be silent about the schedule?

But in NIL and portal era, it is pretty early to make statements like 'embarrassing' schedule and kind of hints towards a bias in writing the article. And that is important point on top of the fact that these teams can change quickly, there is no way to know that a team like Wisconsin which usually fields a strong team is going to suck a few years down the road when these things are scheduled let alone next year when you have transfer portals that can gut or build a team over night.

We have been scheduling some home and home series and targeting SEC teams like Texas and Auburn (hopefully they get stronger come time to play them).

That schedule is embarrassing. Full stop. ND needs to join the Big 10. Make it happen.

Some of the big 10 schedules are embarrassingly bad as well.

Which ones are even close to as bad as ND’s schedule next year without USC?

The two best Teams in Big 10 (country?) had easy schedules this year. Playing powerhouses like Old Dominion, Kennesaw St, Indiana State, Ohio University, Grambling, UCLA, Maryland, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Purdue, Michigan State.

Ohio State played top 25 teams Texas, Michigan and Indiana (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois, Washington and Penn State, who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

Indiana’s schedule is slightly worse though they played Top 25 teams Oregon, Iowa and Ohio State (in the Championship Game), as well as Illinois and Penn State who were ranked in the top 25 during the season.

While not great (you are correct there), these don’t seem as embarrassingly bad as Notre Dame’s schedule next year sans USC. Outside of Miami (which Notre Dame has at home), which of these teams presents even the remotest challenge? SMU possibly?

Away at Purdue, UNC and Syracuse.

Home to Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State, Navy, Boston College, SMU, Stanford

ND really needs to get that USC deal sorted. I get that Notre Dame has a good national fan base to support its NBC deal, but several years of schedules like these with few marquee matchups may not be the right formula to grow or sustain viewership long term.

10 games are ACC or B1G games. ND can't control the ACC and B1G teams sucking or not. How many other teams next year have scheduled 10 or more power 4 games? ND has been making scheduling home and home series with SEC teams a priority.

Fair enough. As for your question, I assume you are counting USC among the 10 games for ND? If so, the answer to your question is USC (assuming you consider ND among the Power 4 teams), and every other major program that schedules one power 4 game among their three non-conference games - I imagine there are many.

I forgot the Big Ten and Big 12 pay 9 conference games. I was thinking the 8 that ACC and SEC play.

The SEC is playing nine conference games next season and must schedule one power 4 opponent among their three non-conference games. So I’m pretty sure that part of the answer to your question of how many teams are playing 10 power 4 games next year, the answer for the SEC is every single one.

 

[BassNBrew]

Notre Dame earned this by thinking they are above being in a conference. It all sounds great until you need that protection.

I don’t understand this vantage point. Why do people think ND being independent is “above being in a conference” ?

Were people this upset with independent Penn State and Miami in the 90s before they joined their conferences? I don’t understand the ire against them not joining effectively a collective bargaining group.

Up until the Kelly tenure, the schedule was tougher than most conference schedules annually. Is it that there is a perception of gaming SOS? If ND had been in the ACC this year, their SOS would have been worse.

The sport has changed 10,000 times since the 90s. You know this. Notre Dame isn’t in a conference and that’s fine but now they have to deal with this kind of stuff happening to them. If you’re the outlier in a sport or a 100+ teams you can’t be upset if people point that out.

It’s not that it’s a thing pointed out, but the ire it draws is nonsensical. Every social media post right now is “serves them right for being different” but not “why”. If it’s SOS, fair, beef up the schedule. But just being mad at them for being independent feels like teeth gnashing with gums.

People don’t like it when others move against the grain, especially if it benefits the thing moving against the grain. That’s just human nature buddy.

It really is jealousy. Every other school in the country knows they need a conference to have any level of success and they hate the fact that ND can and does flourish without one. Not that any conference needs ND but a conference gains much more from having ND join than ND gains from joining a conference.

Well duh...any conference would be gaining some easy wins.

 

[Chadstroma]

The ACC has won 8 national championships since Notre Dame won one. ND fans are ****ing delusional. Sure ACC is down and might go away for football but they’ve won more titles than any conference not named the SEC since 1988 when ND won last.

I have said, the ACC use to be respectable. When we made the deal with ACC it was clearly the third best conference in the country. It is clearly trending in one way and when people knock our schedule it isn't a coincidence that we are only two games short of a full ACC membership schedule.

Yes, history matters and the entire ACC has more National Championships than ND has since 1988. But if we want to talk about history then we have to point out that ND has more National Championships that all 17 teams in the ACC have collectively (11 to 8). If we want to play the game of cherry picking something then ND has more National Championship appearances in the last 5 years than the entire ACC does.

And I do find it funny that you compare and entire conference to ND. It kind of proves the point that ND is different and unique in a way that no other school can achieve since it takes 17 teams to compare to ND.

I don't think it is delusional to point out that the ACC is following closer to the PAC12 than it is the SEC or B1G. Heck, it use to be the premier basketball conference and that looks like that may be in decline as well which is not something I want to see. Heck, I wish the ACC was stronger in football as well. I am just pointing out the reality. When people say join a conference and point to the schedule, I think it is funny but when it comes from people who are ACC fans it is pure comedy because we are playing 6 ACC teams and your argument is our schedule is too weak. So... adding more ACC teams will make it stronger? Explain that to me.

 

[Jayded]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

Re the bolded, i guess you’re suggesting that the players also supported the decision to take their ball and go home after being snubbed from the playoffs? I’m being totally honest here and not trying to take a gratuitous dig when I say I expected better from a character and culture program like Notre Dame. Heck I’d be way less surprised if USC did this.

I agree with this. It's pretty surprising that the coaches didn't stand up like, say - Clark Lea of Vanderbilt did.

Also - I can't believe the staff would want to give up 15 practices. That seems crazy to me.

The 15 practices are really the only thing they are giving up that matters.

I talked to someone far more directly plugged into football than a fan like myself and his statement was (paraphrasing) : “This is what NIL is causing.” ND might just be obvious and tying it to a playoff snub looks bad, but he was clear that within buildings, from high school to college, that NIL as it exists will continue to play out like this, not just for ND.

It’d make sense for conferences and teams to get ahead of this or play a role in solutioning it vs. burying their head that it might go away if he’s right.

He was also super clear that the transfer portal is far bigger here than most realize. The practices aren’t what they used to be because teams and coaches expect so much movement in the portal that they’re starting to write off this previous advantage vs. staying home.

 

[Chadstroma]

The SEC is playing nine conference games next season and must schedule one power 4 opponent among their three non-conference games. So I’m pretty sure that part of the answer to your question of how many teams are playing 10 power 4 games next year, the answer for the SEC is every single one.

Ok, ok, ok... you win. (Forgot about the SEC making them schedule a Power 4 too)

 

[Chadstroma]

I talked to someone far more directly plugged into football than a fan like myself and his statement was (paraphrasing) : “This is what NIL is causing.” ND might just be obvious and tying it to a playoff snub looks bad, but he was clear that within buildings, from high school to college, that NIL as it exists will continue to play out like this, not just for ND.

It’d make sense for conferences and teams to get ahead of this or play a role in solutioning it vs. burying their head that it might go away if he’s right.

He was also super clear that the transfer portal is far bigger here than most realize. The practices aren’t what they used to be because teams and coaches expect so much movement in the portal that they’re starting to write off this previous advantage vs. staying home.

Yea, I think ND is ahead of the game on this. Of course, because it is ND a whole lot of people will throw flaming darts at it but when their teams follow suit then watch their tunes change.

Again, the one thing that everyone should be able to agree on is that the entire system is absolutely flawed. The changes of things like NIL, portal, CFP, realignment, etc are way ahead of the efforts to adjust and probably the biggest problem is that they are dead set on adjusting and not just starting over. The conferences themselves will be the biggest obstacles to making a real final change that fixes everything because it will mean their demise.

 

[General Malaise]

Don’t shoot the messenger. Bevaqua did remind reporters that part of the deal a few years ago that if ND is ranked in the top 12, starting next year, they are guaranteed in.

https://x.com/rossdellenger/status/1997763809914528210?s=46&t=MdTx4FFmmebH2Sw5eQ8I0Q

Am I the only one who snickers and thinks of Tommy Lasorda's rant when I hear the last name of "Bevaqua"? ****WARNING**** THIS LINK HAS LANGUAGE NOT SUITABLE FOR WORK, CHURCH, KIDS OR ANYBODY WITH THE LAST NAME BEVAQUA!!!111

 

[timschochet]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

 

[crushedspirit]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

 

[Chadstroma]

“We were mystified by the actions of the conference to attack their biggest, really, business partner in football and a member of their conference in 24 of our other sports. I would tell you, Dan, I wouldn't be honest with you if I didn't say that they have certainly done permanent damage to the relationship between the conference and Notre Dame.” - Pete Bevacqua on the Dan Patrick Show

 

[Chadstroma]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Unfair to the team if the team didn't want to play? How is that exactly? Would seem more unfair to me if the team didn't want to play and ND made them because they collect $3 million for doing so.

 

[Moe.]

“We were mystified by the actions of the conference to attack their biggest, really, business partner in football and a member of their conference in 24 of our other sports. I would tell you, Dan, I wouldn't be honest with you if I didn't say that they have certainly done permanent damage to the relationship between the conference and Notre Dame.” - Pete Bevacqua on the Dan Patrick Show

Sure seems like the relationship has run its course and both are ready to be done. Can either side terminate the agreement?

 

[timschochet]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Unfair to the team if the team didn't want to play? How is that exactly? Would seem more unfair to me if the team didn't want to play and ND made them because they collect $3 million for doing so.

I meant unfair to the students playing on the team. I’d be surprised if they’re part of this decision or OK with it. I’m sure they would have liked to play another game and be in a bowl game. For a lot of players that’s a pretty big deal.

 

[Sammy3469]

“We were mystified by the actions of the conference to attack their biggest, really, business partner in football and a member of their conference in 24 of our other sports. I would tell you, Dan, I wouldn't be honest with you if I didn't say that they have certainly done permanent damage to the relationship between the conference and Notre Dame.” - Pete Bevacqua on the Dan Patrick Show

Newsflash, ND isn't the ACC's biggest business partner. The ACC's biggest business partner went to bat for Miami. ND needs to realize they are a pimple to ESPN.

 

[General Malaise]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Tulane is the 'elite' college full of rich kids from out-of-state and about 40-45% of the students there are Jewish. The city has never really embraced the university as 'theirs'. LSU and the Saints are their religion.

 

[Chadstroma]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Unfair to the team if the team didn't want to play? How is that exactly? Would seem more unfair to me if the team didn't want to play and ND made them because they collect $3 million for doing so.

I meant unfair to the students playing on the team. I’d be surprised if they’re part of this decision or OK with it. I’m sure they would have liked to play another game and be in a bowl game. For a lot of players that’s a pretty big deal.

I have heard from two sources that it was either a decision made with the students or driven by the students. So... I guess you need to be surprised.

 

[Chadstroma]

“We were mystified by the actions of the conference to attack their biggest, really, business partner in football and a member of their conference in 24 of our other sports. I would tell you, Dan, I wouldn't be honest with you if I didn't say that they have certainly done permanent damage to the relationship between the conference and Notre Dame.” - Pete Bevacqua on the Dan Patrick Show

Newsflash, ND isn't the ACC's biggest business partner. The ACC's biggest business partner went to bat for Miami. ND needs to realize they are a pimple to ESPN.

Well... ESPN and the ACC aren't going to make money off of ND in a bowl game. And that could very well be the final blow to bowl games which ends a big revenue source for ESPN and conferences. Sure, your random G5 6-6 team would jump at an extra couple hundred thousand to play some random bowl game but the serious teams that have good strong talent on their team and are positioned to make a National Championship next year.... why? Surely not for ESPN or a conference that can't even manage to put it's best, by far, team into it's championship game to make more money. ND is, and it isn't even close, the biggest draw a bowl game could get to get ratings from non CFP teams. ND is, and anyone who says otherwise is fool, a force in college football. Everyone knows it. Many do not like it. But everyone knows it.

 

[Chadstroma]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

And I forgot this part...

If you think there is any second thoughts or anything about LSU vs Tulane, I don't think you know college football much at all. Ut you are ertainly clueless as to what LSU means to the state of Louisiana.

 

[nirad3]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Tulane is the 'elite' college full of rich kids from out-of-state and about 40-45% of the students there are Jewish. The city has never really embraced the university as 'theirs'. LSU and the Saints are their religion.

This is correct.

 

[Sparky Polastri]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

 

[timschochet]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

And I forgot this part...

If you think there is any second thoughts or anything about LSU vs Tulane, I don't think you know college football much at all. Ut you are ertainly clueless as to what LSU means to the state of Louisiana.

Oh I know. I just thought it was kind of funny.

 

[timschochet]

Some unrelated thoughts:

1. Whatever legitimate gripe Notre Dame might have had got destroyed when they opted not to play in a bowl game. Such whiners. And it’s really unfair to the team as well. Go away Notre Dame.

2. Rooting big time for James Madison. They’ll probably get crushed but what the hell. Love to see them win especially now that UCLA hired their coach. Though I generally root against Oregon anyhow.

3. Last year when I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans I noticed all the LSU flags everywhere. I was talking to a local at a bar and he told me it’s their number one team there, bigger than the Saints! I asked rather innocently “what about Tulane?” Tulane after all is actually IN New Orleans while LSU is in Baton Rouge. The guy just laughed. Now I have to wonder what he’s thinking with Tulane in the playoff and LSU having a so so season.

Unfair to the team if the team didn't want to play? How is that exactly? Would seem more unfair to me if the team didn't want to play and ND made them because they collect $3 million for doing so.

I meant unfair to the students playing on the team. I’d be surprised if they’re part of this decision or OK with it. I’m sure they would have liked to play another game and be in a bowl game. For a lot of players that’s a pretty big deal.

I have heard from two sources that it was either a decision made with the students or driven by the students. So... I guess you need to be surprised.

Well that’s disappointing. The players need that lecture from that dude in Rudy.

Actually let’s just remake Rudy and have him quit before the last game. What a bunch of whiny crybabies.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

I would expect the NIL pros on the team who would sit the game out anyway should not get a vote and should have no say in whether ND plays a bowl game or not, right? Its none of my business how ND handled this but "consultation with the captains" doesn't sound like a vote to me and I think its odd that a true student-athlete would not want to play in a bowl game and even odder that "everyone" agreed - not a single player would want one final game. Its also odd they would have this 'vote' hours after the announcement when everyone is emotional rather than giving the kids a day or two to think and talk about what they want to do. But mostly I'm just chuckling at the way Bevacqua is presenting it publicly which seems like thinly-veiled BS. The hypocrisy is the AD using the myth of amateurism with his reference to being sad for his "student-athletes" when the justification stated here to skip a bowl game is all about the money, the potential injuries, etc. - thinking about the NFL combine and their pro careers. Those aren't concerns for the students, especially the seniors who have now played their last game without knowing it was their last game.

 

[Chadstroma]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

You are saying that like you are saying something.

Of course we don't need a conference. And the question to you is why does ND get this 'exception' and say UCONN does not? There is a big reason for it. I know you can come up with it on your own. You can do it... just have to force yourself to say it. Go on... it will not physically hurt you.

 

[Ramblin Wreck]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

Committee should just rank them #13 next year

 

[bigbottom]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

You are saying that like you are saying something.

Of course we don't need a conference. And the question to you is why does ND get this 'exception' and say UCONN does not? There is a big reason for it. I know you can come up with it on your own. You can do it... just have to force yourself to say it. Go on... it will not physically hurt you.

I can say it. Notre Dame has the influence and power to negotiate such an exclusive benefit. But I think it makes them giant hypocrites to be crying about being unfairly bumped from the playoffs when they have intentionally negotiated for a benefit that allows them to unfairly bump other more highly ranked teams from the playoffs.

 

[Chadstroma]

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

That makes no sense. If the bowl game doesn't beget a chance at the title, it's an exhibition. If the kids feel risk is greater than reward and doesn't lead to a title, those aren't the same thing.

It'd be hypocritical if participating in the bowl directly led to them having a chance to win an AP/Coaches' poll title, but they don't in the playoff format.

All these teams declining a bowl invite is funny.

I don’t get it and don’t agree with it. There’s lots of seniors who have worked their *** off for 4+ years who, IMO, deserve one last bowl game to enjoy and play in. Not all of these guys will play in the pros. For those that will and want to not risk injury, then absolutely do what’s best. Also, young kids can always stand to get more reps and playing time in a real game even if it’s somewhat like an exhibition.

It seems hypocritical for the Notre Dame AD to bemoan "an absolute sense of sadness for our student-athletes" with the playoff snub but then decline a bowl game.

Beyond 15 extra practices and what? $3 million payout.... what benefit of playing is there for ND (Team and players). My feel from listening to ND shows is that players were on board and the decision was made with consultation of the captains on the team. Guys like Love and Price wouldn't play as they get ready for the NFL. I have zero interest in putting Carr and other top talent returning players at risk.

ND is taking a stand. Like it or not and of course there are plenty of haters that will automatically not like it. A BYU vs ND game would have higher ratings than either Tulane or JMU beat downs. Who benefits from that? Not ND or the players.

I think your comments and Jayded's comments perfectly illustrate the hypocrisy. Its OK to have the opinion that ND was screwed by the committee. Its also OK to choose to sit out a bowl game. Like all big football programs, Notre Dame has a mix of professional athletes for whom this is a stepping stone and others who are true student-athletes, who will never play organized football again after leaving South Bend. The hypocrisy is when the AD whines about the committee's decision by appealing to the plight of the "student-athletes" while defending the decision to skip a bowl game by referencing the pros, the payouts, a national title, the injury risk, the NFL, etc.

Do you think the student athletes were ok with being snubbed for the CFP and wanted to play this bowl game and ND said "nope, screw you kids"? Obviously, I am being hyperbolic there to make a point but that is the just of what I am getting from you on the hypocrisy. If I am missing it in a different way, please explain.

If so, I don't think that is the case. I have heard in ND podcasts that it was in consultation with the captains of the team and everyone was on board with not playing, I haven't found it written anywhere but that feels right to me being someone who follows this team very closely.

I would expect the NIL pros on the team who would sit the game out anyway should not get a vote and should have no say in whether ND plays a bowl game or not, right? Its none of my business how ND handled this but "consultation with the captains" doesn't sound like a vote to me and I think its odd that a true student-athlete would not want to play in a bowl game and even odder that "everyone" agreed - not a single player would want one final game. Its also odd they would have this 'vote' hours after the announcement when everyone is emotional rather than giving the kids a day or two to think and talk about what they want to do. But mostly I'm just chuckling at the way Bevacqua is presenting it publicly which seems like thinly-veiled BS. The hypocrisy is the AD using the myth of amateurism with his reference to being sad for his "student-athletes" when the justification stated here to skip a bowl game is all about the money, the potential injuries, etc. - thinking about the NFL combine and their pro careers. Those aren't concerns for the students, especially the seniors who have now played their last game without knowing it was their last game.

I don't have definitive information on what happened with who and when etc so I don't know. From a podcast I listen to, it was a decision that the leadership, coaching staff and captains representing the players made together. McAfee and his "source-es" the captains initiated the entire thing with not wanting to play. I have not seen or heard anything (and I have looked) that indicated anything other than those two options.

My speculation on this based on my sense of Freeman, how the school operates and the kids on the team is that the leadership would look to Freeman to take the lead and I don't think Freeman would ignore the players on which way he went. I think Freeman's default position would be to play the bowl game but he absolutely would not over ride his players in either direction and leadership would not over ride Freeman in either direction. So, my sense and what I am hearing, is that this is player driven.

 

[Chadstroma]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

You are saying that like you are saying something.

Of course we don't need a conference. And the question to you is why does ND get this 'exception' and say UCONN does not? There is a big reason for it. I know you can come up with it on your own. You can do it... just have to force yourself to say it. Go on... it will not physically hurt you.

I can say it. Notre Dame has the influence and power to negotiate such an exclusive benefit. But I think it makes them giant hypocrites to be crying about being unfairly bumped from the playoffs when they have intentionally negotiated for a benefit that allows them to unfairly bump other more highly ranked teams from the playoffs.

How?

12 playoff spots.
Agreement is if they are top 12, they are in.

 

[Ramblin Wreck]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

You are saying that like you are saying something.

Of course we don't need a conference. And the question to you is why does ND get this 'exception' and say UCONN does not? There is a big reason for it. I know you can come up with it on your own. You can do it... just have to force yourself to say it. Go on... it will not physically hurt you.

I can say it. Notre Dame has the influence and power to negotiate such an exclusive benefit. But I think it makes them giant hypocrites to be crying about being unfairly bumped from the playoffs when they have intentionally negotiated for a benefit that allows them to unfairly bump other more highly ranked teams from the playoffs.

Can't wait for ND to get a bid at #12 and knock out #11 Alabama and see how fast Sankey sues the world and blows the whole thing up.

 

[Chadstroma]

From what I heard Heather Dinich say on ESPN,

ND is protected for the next 6 years if they're ranked in the top-12 of a playoff spot as long as it remains a 12 team playoff. Also starting next season all P4 conf winners will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

With that kind of deal and with the income ND generates, there's no way they're joining any conference anytime soon. It also means the conf games are not going anywhere anytime soon even though many want to see them go. There's too much $$$ at stake here. I also have zero doubt each conference will look at and adjust their tie breakers, especially the ACC.

This is the kind of stuff that makes the "we don't need help from anyone" shtick so annoying from that fanbase. Of course you don't. When you have exceptions like this who needs a conference? They will proudly stand on third thinking they hit a triple.

Committee should just rank them #13 next year

All conferences should agree to not schedule them. Grrrrr
The committee should just rank them #13 next year. Grrrrr
Everyone should be mad and bitter like me. Grrrrr

 

[Moe.]

Sam Leavitt to enter the transfer portal and leave Arizona Stste. I know Skattebo was the big star from that playoff team but I have found Leavitt to be really impressive as well. If Moore goes pro Oregon would be a good fit for Leavitt.